In an era where technology advances at a rapid pace, it is crucial for healthcare systems to keep up with the digital transformation. Hong Kong has recognized the importance of embracing electronic health records (EHRs) and is pushing for the expansion of its eHealth system. This move holds immense potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery, improve efficiency, and enhance patient care. However, in order to fully realize these benefits, it is essential to address the existing challenges and foster a collaborative approach between public and private medical service providers.
The eHealth platform, introduced over eight years ago, has already proved its worth during the COVID-19 pandemic, serving as a convenient repository for vaccination records. Now, with the ambitious plan to upgrade “eHealth+” with an investment of HK$1.4 billion ($179.3 million), Hong Kong aims to take its healthcare system to new heights. By seamlessly integrating public and private healthcare providers and allowing patients to deposit their records into personalized accounts, eHealth+ has the potential to revolutionize healthcare accessibility and quality.
Digitalization is not just about convenience; it holds immense potential for improving primary healthcare policies and supporting medical research. By harnessing the power of data, Hong Kong can achieve its goals of enhancing healthcare outcomes and contributing to global medical advancements. Moreover, plans to synchronize eHealth with systems used in other cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area will strengthen collaboration and healthcare integration across the region.
While the eHealth system has witnessed significant adoption by public healthcare providers, private practitioners have lagged behind in terms of data contribution. This discrepancy can be attributed to various factors such as a perceived lack of need, software issues, and patient consent. To overcome these challenges, authorities plan to simplify the consent process and streamline the record-uploading mechanism. However, effective communication with the public and providers is paramount to address privacy concerns and ensure that the benefits of data sharing are well understood.
The success of the eHealth initiative hinges on cooperation between public and private service providers. It is imperative for both sectors to recognize the value of data sharing and actively participate in the system. Quality HealthCare Medical Services, a private clinic that has already collaborated with the Health Bureau, has experienced the benefits of sharing records, simplifying access to information, and reducing administrative burdens. Encouragingly, patients will also have the option to send their medical records to the mainland for treatment, while strict safeguards ensure the protection of sensitive data.
Privacy concerns surrounding digital health records are valid and require careful attention. To build trust, the public should be empowered with control over their health records. Ownership and access rights must be clearly defined, ensuring that individuals have the final say in authorizing access to their data. By fostering open dialogue and increasing awareness about privacy protection measures, more people can embrace this technology and contribute to the development of an effective and secure healthcare ecosystem.
Investing HK$1.4 billion in the development of eHealth+ over the next five years is an investment in the health and well-being of Hong Kong residents. This funding will support the creation of a comprehensive medical information infrastructure, encompassing data management, service delivery and process optimization. The eHealth+ system will provide a range of services, including online booking, laboratory reports, medication management, and electronic medical certificates, empowering individuals to take charge of their health journeys.
Hong Kong stands at the forefront of digital healthcare transformation, poised to unlock the immense potential of electronic health records. By fostering collaboration, addressing challenges and prioritizing privacy and trust, the city can pave the way for a healthier future. The journey toward eHealth+ represents a turning point in healthcare delivery, in which data-driven insights and seamless connectivity will improve patient care, reduce costs, and facilitate groundbreaking medical advancements. As Hong Kong embraces the digital revolution, it can truly become a global leader in healthcare innovation, setting an example for other regions to follow suit.
The author is chairman of the Asia MarTech Society and an assistant professor at Saint Francis University in Tseung Kwan O.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
