The Western Australian government is setting aside nearly A$100 million ($68 million) to complete the first phase rollout of its EMR system.

This phase involves the implementation of digital medical records with single sign-on technology and virtual desktop infrastructure at all WA public hospitals. It also includes EMRs inside the ICUs at Perth Children's Hospital and Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital.

Moreover, this phase, according to a media release, is in preparation for the full statewide rollout of the EMR system.

Meanwhile, the state government has also pledged a full EMR rollout at Perth Children's Hospital, the first among WA hospitals, following recommendations set by the Coronial Inquest into the death of Aishwarya Aswath. To recall, the seven-year-old girl died of sepsis almost two hours after waiting to be admitted to the hospital. The inquest later found a small chance of her living if only care was administered to her sooner.

WHY IT MATTERS

WA is implementing an EMR system that will enable the real-time sharing of patient information and analytics to support clinical decision-making, patient flow, and new virtual models of care. It noted the benefits of having such a system in other jurisdictions, including the reduction of preventable patient deaths and unplanned readmissions, an increase in staff productivity and retention, and an improvement in patient flow.

THE LARGER TREND

The new funding comes on top of A$51.7 million ($35 million) that was already funded in previous state budgets to commence the EMR rollout. WA first funded the project in 2020, which was one of the key recommendations of the Sustainable Health Review.

"This important investment will help to change the way clinical care is provided in WA by planning for a modern, resource-efficient, digital platform that prioritises safety and improves patient outcomes. A [EMR] system will also create an important foundation for future digital growth and clinical innovation within the Western Australian health system," the state government said previously.