The government-developed platform, launched in 2016, enables the sharing of electronic health records among healthcare providers in both the public and private sectors, while also letting people access their own records.
But the Health Bureau said almost all data in the system currently comes from the public sector, and some private healthcare providers struggle to link their internal system with the eHealth system. Officials also said some private clinics believe patients’ records are their personal assets, and are reluctant to share their data.
Under proposed changes to the Electronic Health Record Sharing Ordinance, the secretary for health will be empowered to require all healthcare providers to enter important data into their patients’ eHealth accounts.
These include prescription, diagnosis, allergies and adverse drug reactions, immunisation records, as well as laboratory and radiology reports.
Healthcare providers failing to meet such requirements could face a fixed fine of HK$1,500 and be prosecuted for a fine of up to HK$50,000.
The bureau also proposed simplifying the consent mechanism, so when individuals open an eHealth account, they automatically grant healthcare providers the right to upload their health records to the system.
But to access the records, healthcare providers must still obtain a separate approval from the individuals.
The bureau is also looking into allowing some recognised healthcare providers on the mainland to provide and receive data across the border.
But these non-Hong Kong healthcare providers would only have temporary access, and must obtain explicit consent from their patients.
The administration also hopes to expand access to eHealth to more healthcare professionals, including speech therapists and dietitians as well as those working in facilities managed by the government.
In a closed-door media briefing, Deputy Secretary for Health Sam Hui explained that the government hopes to establish a proper legal framework through the amendment bill and that the changes won’t take effect until the market is ready.
He also said the government is working closely with healthcare groups and third-party service providers, to help with the integration of electronic systems.
The bill will be gazetted on Friday and brought to the Legislative Council for a first reading next Wednesday.
