The Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) has begun exploring innovative solutions to enhance the maintenance and support of its national digital health system, specifically the My Health Record (MHR) application. The agency recently issued a request for information (RFI) to gather insights on “technical or process-driven advances” that could ensure the system’s adaptability, effectiveness, and readiness for future health demands. This input will guide the agency’s upcoming procurement of application support and maintenance (ASM) services, expected to begin next year. The ADHA has indicated that ASM services will require collaboration with various vendors, aligning with recent tenders.
The Broader Context
This move comes following a June report by the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO), which reviewed ADHA’s management of its MHR National Infrastructure Operator (NIO) contract, held by Accenture since 2012 and renewed most recently in 2022. The audit concluded that ADHA’s handling of Accenture’s contract had been only “partly effective,” noting gaps in procurement planning and risk management. The ANAO report highlighted concerns over contract amendments lacking proper risk assessment and value-for-money justification. As a result, the contract value has now reached approximately A$746 million (around $490 million USD).
To address these challenges, the ANAO issued recommendations, including a detailed review of MHR procurement risks, annual updates to the contract management plan, and a robust procurement process once the current contract with Accenture expires in June 2024. The ADHA has accepted all 13 ANAO recommendations and is developing an internal procurement plan to support open tender processes that prioritize transparent, value-based decision-making.
Over 24 million Australians currently have digital health records through MHR. However, uptake among clinicians remains a challenge, with nearly one-third of general practitioners reportedly using the system rarely or not at all, according to a recent survey. Despite these challenges, the ADHA remains committed to the MHR modernization initiative, which is part of the federal government’s broader 10-year digital health strategy. This modernization effort reflects the government’s dedication to advancing the digital health landscape in Australia, aiming for systems that can effectively support the evolving needs of patients and healthcare providers.
As the ADHA moves forward with the modernization of My Health Record, the agency is focused on building a more resilient, responsive digital health system that meets the needs of both patients and healthcare providers. By implementing the recommendations from the ANAO report and gathering input from industry experts, the ADHA aims to ensure that future procurement processes are transparent and deliver value for the Australian public. The agency envisions an upgraded My Health Record system that not only enhances accessibility and security but also integrates seamlessly into the broader healthcare ecosystem, empowering clinicians to provide better care through reliable, real-time access to patient information. Through this modernization, the ADHA underscores its commitment to a digital health infrastructure capable of adapting to technological advancements and evolving health challenges, ultimately supporting Australia’s long-term health strategy and improving health outcomes nationwide.
Reference:
1. Modernising National Digital Health Capabilities to drive innovation. Modernising national digital health capabilities to drive innovation. (n.d.). https://www.digitalhealth.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/modernisation-of-national-digital-health-capabilities-to-drive-innovation
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)