Jersey Health and Care Index co-ordinates patient details

The index would hold basic identifying information such as names and dates of birth but not medical details, the government said

Jersey's government and GPs have announced a new "tell us once" healthcare information system.

The Jersey Health and Care Index is designed to make sure that patients' personal data is the same with all healthcare providers on the island.

The index will hold basic identifying information such as names and dates of birth but not medical details.

Dr Nigel Minihane, chair of the Primary Care Body, said the index would "streamline patient data management".

It has been designed to ensure that core personal information including names, contact details, date of birth and registered GPs is the same across all local healthcare systems.

'Better patient care'

Updates to information made in one system should automatically be reflected in other relevant systems.

Dr Minihane said: "This will lead to better patient care and ensure that essential personal information is always accurate and accessible to authorised healthcare providers."

Personal information would be used lawfully and securely, the government said, and the index would not store medical details or history such as test results and diagnosis.

The system aims to simplify the process for GP referrals to hospital consultants for specialist care.

Patient information would only be used for healthcare purposes and as such, would only be accessible to authorised individuals, ensuring strict data privacy, the government confirmed.

Enda McVeigh, consultant at Health and Community Service, said it would make it "easier for islanders to access vital services".

"It's a significant step toward a more efficient healthcare system, that will improve the patient experience."