New health connectivity standards for telecommunication networks

The National Health Board is ready to certify telecommunication networks to create a secure, reliable Connected Health Network. This announcement follows the approval of the Connected Health Network Connectivity Standards by the Health Information Standards Organisation (HISO) last week.

 The Standards were developed in collaboration with the telecommunications industry, facilitated by the New Zealand Health IT Cluster. They represent a major milestone in the delivery of the Connected Health Programme, which is establishing an environment for the safe sharing of health information.

 The Connected Health Network is an initiative in the National Health IT Plan and an important foundation for other initiatives in the Plan that require the transfer of information between health providers.

 New Zealand Health IT Cluster CEO, Dougal McKechnie commended the industry group that developed the Standards.

 'Telecommunications is a highly competitive market. The development of these standards is a great example of what can be achieved with industry collaboration, which is what the Cluster is all about. We were pleased to facilitate the Standards Working Group of industry experts.'

 The Connected Health approach involves connecting up the networks of private sector telecommunication service providers to build a 'network of networks' based on network connectivity standards, allowing for an open and competitive telecommunications market in the health and disability sector.

 In the near future, at least five network providers are expected to apply for product certification against the Connected Health Connectivity Standards, giving health providers a choice of products to connect to the Connected Health Network. The target date for the interconnection of the certified networks is December 2010.

 'I am really pleased with this achievement. It is another step towards providing cost-effective choices for health care organisations when they review the purchase of their network connections,' said Graeme Osborne, Director of the National Health IT Board.

 The Midland Region will lead the regional implementation of the Connected Health Network, testing the standards, evaluating their effectiveness, and providing leadership for the Network's implementation in the remaining three regions - Northern, Central and Southern.

 Further information about the Connected Health Programme is available at www.ithealthboard.health.nz/connectedhealth.