One million reasons to build a better Queensland health system

A system to improve health care by sharing hospital records has passed a milestone, with more than one million hospital discharge records sent electronically to GPs.

Health Minister Lawrence Springborg said the milestone for the Enterprise Discharge Summary (EDS) system was significant for patients, GPs and the Queensland Government eHealth Program.

“Sending a patient’s discharge summary electronically means accurate information can be securely delivered to GPs immediately following the patient’s discharge from hospital,” Mr Springborg said.

“EDS has been particularly beneficial for our regional and remote patients and GPs because the system electronically sends discharge information to local GPs who are kept informed in a more timely and legible manner.

“GPs no longer need to wait for a discharge summary to be posted to them, which means they can provide better post-discharge care to their patients following a hospital stay.”

The milestone proves health facilities are keen to use modern technology to deliver better quality patient care regardless of a patient’s location.

Acting Chief Information Officer Phil Woolley said EDS was in place in 180 Department of Health facilities across Queensland, with more than 4,960 GPs and 1,129 GP practices electronically enabled.

“This system has been helping to improve post-discharge care to the Queensland community since it was first introduced in 2007,” Mr Woolley said. 

“The efficient delivery of accurate information about a patient’s hospital stay means better post-discharge care. The system also enhances relationships between hospitals and GPs.

“EDS is part of the Government’s investment in an eHealth strategy, which aims to deliver a patient-centric networked model of care.

“EDS is an example of the Department’s commitment to providing sustainable technology solutions to support a more responsive, efficient health service for Queenslanders.”

[ENDS] 15 January 2013

Media contact: Cameron Thompson 0407 585 230