National Electronic Health Record (EHR)

A National Electronic Health Record (EHR) is a digital system that holds a person’s full health and social care information in one place. It replaces paper records and separate IT systems. Staff can record, update, and look up health information using a single system.

HSE One Health Record

Work is underway through the Digital for Care Framework to create a EHR called the HSE One Health Record.

It will be used across all health services in Ireland. This means that staff will be able to see the same up-to-date information no matter where a patient is receiving care.

Benefits of HSE One Health Record

In the future, patients will be able to see their own records online. Carers may also be able to access the records, but only with the patient’s permission.

The HSE One Health Record is a key part of Sláintecare, Ireland’s plan to improve and better connect healthcare services.

It will be the biggest investment ever made in digital health in Ireland. It will also be the largest digital transformation programme the Irish health system has taken on. Around 5.3 million people across 6 health regions, along with about 160,000 staff, are expected to benefit.

Why an electronic record matters

Patients often have to repeat their medical history every time they use a new health service. With this system, staff will be able to find information quickly and safely. This will help patients feel more supported and confident in their care.

For patients and service users, this means:

• medical history does not need to be repeated at every appointment
• more consistent care across hospitals and community services
• key information, such as medications and allergies, will be easily accessed

For staff, this means:

• faster access to reliable information
• less time searching records or trying to read handwriting
• stronger support for safe clinical decision-making and care planning

What we're working on now

The HSE has received government approval to start the procurement process for the system that will support the HSE One Health Record.

Work is underway to consult with key stakeholders, especially patients and healthcare workers. This is to make sure the HSE One Health Record works well in real healthcare settings. Technical planning is also ongoing to ensure the system meets national standards and reflects patient needs.

The first stage will be rolled out in the Dublin and North East Health region, with a target date of 2029. The goal for full rollout is 2032.

Contact

For more information on our EHR initiative, email ehr@hse.ie