Health Minister publishes 'Digital for Care' framework 2024-2030

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has launched "Digital for Care: A Digital Health Framework for Ireland 2024-2030" to digitally transform Ireland's health services and improve patient access. Key initiatives include:

• 2024: Launch of a patient app for medical history and records.

• 2025: Introduction of a "Shared Care Record" for integrated patient records.

• Long-term: Deployment of Electronic Health Records (EHR).

The framework envisions a modern, patient-centered health service utilizing the latest digital technologies to deliver universal healthcare, improve care quality, and increase efficiency. Highlights include scaling virtual care as an alternative to inpatient care, securing technology for a National Shared Care Record, advancing a Health Information Bill, expanding the use of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to manage waiting lists, and reducing outpatient no-show rates with mobile SMS reminders. Other initiatives involve national electronic prescribing, continued investment in GP systems, leveraging existing EHR systems, and building robust cybersecurity measures following the 2021 ransomware attack.

Minister Donnelly emphasized the importance of digital technology in healthcare, aiming to improve access, affordability, patient safety, and productivity. The health service is set to embark on a journey towards a universal digital health record system, aligning with the EU Digital Strategy. By the end of 2024, the initial version of the HSE App will be available, putting patients at the center of their care journey and enhancing their overall experience with the health service. Damien McCallion, Chief Operations Officer of the HSE, highlighted the ongoing efforts to implement this digital health vision, with new initiatives like e-Prescribing and remote health monitoring already benefiting patients and aiming for a seamless, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare system.