Australia Needs Better Health Data Systems to Improve Care
29 Jan 2026
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has released a report warning that Australia’s digital health systems are too isolated and incompatible, causing delays in patient care and worse health outcomes.
AMA Vice President Associate Professor Julian Rait said that while the government recognises the importance of digital health systems, urgent action is needed to make sure patient information can move seamlessly between systems.
“Progress has been slow. Only one in ten specialists use My Health Record, and only one in five diagnostic imaging reports are uploaded. This is because many systems don’t work together efficiently,” A/Prof Rait said.
Currently, most health data is stored in separate databases using different software. This creates delays in doctors accessing important patient information. In some hospitals, notes from the emergency department have to be printed and carried to other departments, including the ICU.
“This leads to duplicated work, wasted resources, and unnecessary delays in diagnosis and treatment,” he said.
A/Prof Rait also highlighted that poor digital connection slows medical research. Well-connected systems could generate new insights and help move discoveries from the lab to patient care faster.
The AMA recommends creating a legislated authority to enforce standards for digital systems, including how data is shared. Currently, codes in the digital health sector are voluntary, but mandatory national standards are needed to make systems interoperable.
“Without agreed national standards, patients and doctors will continue to face delays and poorer outcomes,” A/Prof Rait said.
The report concludes that a modern health system must have connected digital systems to use resources effectively and deliver better care. While governments have committed to digital interoperability, legal frameworks and rules are needed to make it a reality.
https://www.ama.com.au/
Source: Australian Medical Association
