New Zealand to introduce new National Health Index format
Te Whatu Ora is expected to launch a new format for the National Health Index (NHI) from July 2026.
The NHI provides a unique identifier for every New Zealand citizen from birth or when they first interact with the health system. From the AAA111# format, the NHI will move to the new AAA11A# format.
“The new format will be aimed at newborns and those using the health system for the first time,” Te Whatu Ora noted in a statement.
Healthcare IT providers were initially required to make the necessary updates to their systems, equipment and processes for both the current and new formats, with the transition set for October next year. The deadline has been adjusted to give them more time to make the change.
$6 million for national health data projects
The Australian government recently announced $9.2 million (US$6.2 million) in funding for four national health data projects.
According to the press release, the following projects will receive financial support from the Future Medical Research Fund:
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Murdoch Children’s Research Institute “Generation V:A linked national data source for early and midlife healthcare solutions” aims to combine data from all newborns nationwide to support preventive healthcare for mothers and children.
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“A” from Monash University National Clinical Quality Linked Registry for Cervical Cancer“will link data on vaccination rates, screening and treatment of cervical cancer.
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The University of New South Wales’ “Reproductive Medicine Data Asset for Australia”: FM DATA“aims to collect data on fertility, infertility and reproductive medicine.
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“Creating a Congenital Heart Disease Nation” by the University of SydneyKnowledge Bank“.”
Franklin Hospital Deploys New PAS
Franklin Hospital in New Zealand is implementing a new patient management system.
The company recently awarded a contract to Orion for PAS, which includes a clinical portal, progress notes, dynamic patient summaries, operating room and endoscopy dashboards, and a results viewer. The company also offers a comprehensive suite of clinical workflow templates and integration with key national systems.
The Auckland-based hospital serves more than 3,200 patients each year. Specializing in endoscopy and surgical procedures, the hospital requires a solution that provides “detailed, reliable patient and procedure records.”
Starting this month, September, the PAS project is expected to significantly reduce medical errors and relieve clinicians and staff from administrative burdens. The project is targeted for deployment in April next year.
