Microsoft just announced that Google Health users can transfer their data to Microsoft HealthVault. This can be done with Direct Project messaging protocols established by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT, the company says.

HealthVault lets users store and transfer info between various health-related applications, devices, and services.

Google announced last month that it would discontinuing Google Health (as well as PowerMeter) as of January 1. “Both were based on the idea that with more and better information, people can make smarter choices, whether in regard to managing personal health and wellness, or saving money and conserving energy at home. While they didn’t scale as we had hoped, we believe they did highlight the importance of access to information in areas where it’s traditionally been difficult,” Google said at the time.

As Microsoft and Google compete in many areas of tech, Microsoft is clearly using the discontinuation of a Google service to show it has a leg up in this area.

“Google has been an important ally in providing customers with access to their data and tools to better manage care online,” said Nate McLemore, general manager, Microsoft Health Solutions Group. “Microsoft continues to advance the HealthVault platform to increase its value to consumers — by adding important features, such as support for mobile devices, and by collaborating with hundreds of health organizations, including the American Cancer Society,American Heart Association and CVS Pharmacy — to deliver robust health and wellness applications that connect to HealthVault.”

There are about 300 apps connected to the HealthVault platform to help users manage various conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, pregnancy, etc. According to MIcrosoft, it’s also connected with over 70 devices, including blood pressure monitors, blood glucose monitors, weight scales, pedometers, and peak flow meters.

After January 1, Google Health users will no longer be able to view, enter or edit any of their data stored in Google Health, though they will be able to download the data stored in various formats through January 1, 2013.