Ireland announces plans to roll out patient app and shared care record

The Health Service Executive (HSE) in Ireland has unveiled a comprehensive digital health framework aimed at transforming the country’s healthcare services. Among the initiatives outlined in the ‘Digital for Care: A Digital Health Framework for Ireland 2024-2030’ is the launch of a patient app designed to provide patients with greater access to their health information and digital health services, including virtual care options. Additionally, plans are in place to implement a national shared care record by 2025, followed by the deployment of electronic health records (EHR). Stephen Donnelly, Ireland’s minister for health, expressed optimism about the future of healthcare delivery in the country with the implementation of this digital framework. The HSE is currently in the process of procuring technology for the shared care record, with EHRs already approved for several healthcare facilities. Other digital initiatives highlighted in the framework include expanding virtual care interventions, utilizing robotic process automation for managing waiting lists, and introducing a national electronic prescribing solution. The HSE is also focusing on enhancing cyber resilience following a ransomware attack in 2021, as part of its commitment to safeguarding patient data and maintaining robust healthcare IT infrastructure.