82327 (2024). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Health

82327 (2024). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Health: What IT upgrades or systems are considered “high priority” for Health NZ over the next two years, and what funding has been allocated to ensure these are implemented?

Hon Dr Shane Reti: I am advised that as part of the 2024/25 capital plan process, Health New Zealand undertook a prioritisation exercise to identify initiatives with the highest cost-benefit ratios aligned to its objectives and imperatives. This process will be repeated for the 2025/26 financial year. I am further advised that the identified priorities for 2024/25 include remediation of technical debt and investment in core infrastructure; supporting the modernisation of ways of working (digital workspace); core data services, and critical clinical application investment. The latter investment included allocations for laboratory remediation at Waikato Hospital; an initial budget for radiology stabilisation; medication management; a range of clincial support upgrades; community care solutions, and replacing Auckland's patient administration systems. I am also advised that longer-term investment intentions will be captured in the Long Term Infrastructure Investment Plan and will outline the priority activities for future years.