Ireland’s Department of Health has introduced the ‘Health Information Bill 2024’, which is set to establish a legal framework for digital health records in the country.  

The bill, which follows the Irish Government’s approval, aims to provide legal provisions for the sharing of patient data for care and treatment.

It is also designed to support Ireland's commitments under the European Health Data Space (EHDS) Regulation, due to be implemented this year.

The Health Information Bill 2024 is intended to create a national health information system that will improve patient care and the planning and delivery of health services.

According to the Department of Health, this bill is a crucial element for the successful execution of ‘Digital for Care: A Digital Health Framework for Ireland 2024 – 2030’, launched in June.

Once enacted, the legislation will authorise the Health Service Executive (HSE) to consolidate health information from various care settings, including the private, public, and voluntary sectors.

This consolidation is for the development and deployment of digital health records for all patients.

The bill is further expected to provide enhanced access to health information for both patients and healthcare providers, leading to improved health outcomes.

In addition to improving care, the bill will bolster patient safety through improved identification processes.

It advocates for the use of Eircode and the Personal Public Service Number (PPSN) to identify patients, aligning with the national digital strategy.

Ireland Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said: “Integrated care as envisioned in Sláintecare, needs the right information, in the right place, at the right time.  

“The Health Information Bill gives patients greater access to their own information so they can make informed decisions about their health and care options. It also enables health professionals to have a more complete, holistic view of the patients they are treating.”

Donnelly highlighted that the bill is expected to progress through the Houses of the Oireachtas during the upcoming autumn legislative session.

Additional legislative measures are scheduled for the forthcoming months and years to fully realise the policy intent of the approved General Scheme of the Bill and to ensure compliance with the EHDS implementation deadlines set for 2026 to 2030.