Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 February 2006
196 Dr. Twomey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the situation in regard to the availability of an electronic health record for all people accessing health services; if such a record is in use nationally; its effect on waiting lists and clinical decision making; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8006/06]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe national health information strategy published in July 2004 sets out the strategic direction for the electronic health record, EHR, and the high-level tasks required to implement it. My Department is giving consideration to the area of unique client and patient identification, which is a key requirement for the implementation of the EHR. This is a complex matter involving not only technical IT but major issues regarding confidentiality of patient information and it is likely to take some considerable time to implement.
