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Green light given to the National Electronic Decision Support Plan for Health

Electronic decision support systems can make an important contribution to the quality of health care by giving clinicians electronic-based tools that can provide them with access to relevant, evidence-based information at the point of care, Senator Patterson said in launching a report setting the future direction for electronic decision support in Australia.

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14 February 2003

Green light given to the National Electronic Decision Support Plan for Health

Federal Minister for Health and Ageing Senator the Hon. Kay Patterson today launched a report setting the future direction for electronic decision support in Australia.

"Electronic decision support systems can make an important contribution to the quality of health care by giving clinicians electronic-based tools that can provide them with access to relevant, evidence-based information at the point of care," Senator Patterson said.

The National Electronic Decision Support Taskforce Report - Electronic Decision Support for Australia's Health Sector has brought together opinions and evidence from Australia and overseas to develop a national plan of action to ensure the development of sustainable, nationally integrated systems.

"Health professionals are increasingly relying on computer-based systems to store the vast amounts of information they need. Action now on effective electronic decision support will help increase the safety and quality of Australia's future electronic health system."

The report recommends a way ahead for ensuring a national approach to electronic decision support development, including national governance arrangements to provide direction and coordination.

"A national approach provides the best chance for the development of innovative, safe and high quality decision support systems in Australia," Senator Patterson said.

The National Electronic Decision Support Taskforce was formed in May 2002 under the guidance of the National Health Information Management Advisory Council. The Taskforce report was endorsed by all Australian Health Ministers' at their meeting in Brisbane on the 29th of November 2002.

Media inquiries, contact Randal Markey, Media Adviser, Senator Patterson's office, 02 6277 7220.

Further information, Abha Bedi, Ag Director, National eHealth Policy Section, 02 62714307