Modernisation of national digital health capabilities to drive innovation
Published 13 November 2020
Following on from the Request for Information (RFI) inviting stakeholders to contribute to a conversation about the future of the national infrastructure in 2019, the Australian Digital Health Agency (Agency) has commenced a program of work to undertake activities to modernise the national digital health infrastructure to better connect Australia’s healthcare system and deliver significant improvements in the quality and efficiency of healthcare.
Agency CEO Amanda Cattermole said “2020 has demonstrated the tangible benefits of a better connected healthcare system.”
“In addition to the benefits from telehealth and electronic prescriptions, healthcare providers are in increasing numbers using My Health Record as a safe and secure way to upload and access documents to support patient care.”
“The modernisation of the national digital health infrastructure will provide the framework for future innovation.”
The National Infrastructure Modernisation (NIM) program has been developed with feedback from stakeholders to consider what a digital health ecosystem could be over a 10-year horizon. It supports Australia’s National Digital Health Strategy and the connections between state and territory government services.
The Program will deliver three key outcomes for Australian healthcare providers and patients:
- a secure and sustainable digital infrastructure with improved ability to innovate and expand future capabilities and services nationally;
- ensure that digital health needs for all users are further progressed through a modern, future-proofed seamless digital platform; and
- ensure that the benefits of digital health technologies and services supported by the national infrastructure are realised for consumers and clinicians, leading to improved health and wellbeing for all Australians.
Agency Chief Information Officer Kerri Burden said the tender announced today is focussed on replacing the current gateway services for the national infrastructure, including the My Health Record system.
“This is the first step in the procurement to increase the opportunity to deliver contemporary digital services and enhance connections across the digital landscape. The importance of a connected health care system has never been more evident than in 2020.”
“We look forward to working with all our stakeholders to deliver the digital health products and services Australia needs, while promoting a culture of continuous improvement and innovation,” Ms Burden said.
Note for media: The Agency has scheduled a briefing for media on Tuesday 24 November at 10.00 am. Please email [email protected] if you wish to attend.
Media contact
Australian Digital Health Agency Media Team
Mobile: 0428 772 421
Email: [email protected]
About the Australian Digital Health Agency
The Agency is tasked with improving health outcomes for all Australians through the delivery of digital healthcare systems, and implementing Australia’s National Digital Health Strategy – Safe, Seamless, and Secure: evolving health and care to meet the needs of modern Australia in collaboration with partners across the community. The Agency is the System Operator of My Health Record, and provides leadership, coordination, and delivery of a collaborative and innovative approach to utilising technology to support and enhance a clinically safe and connected national health system. These improvements will give individuals more control of their health and their health information, and support healthcare providers to deliver informed healthcare through access to current clinical and treatment information. Further information: www.digitalhealth.gov.au