Electronic registry set to launch
November 6, 2008
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Mike Funston
STAFF REPORTER
Ontario will be the first province to launch an electronic registry for 900,000 residents with diabetes, beginning with a pilot project this spring.
The registry will provide electronic access to information and educational tools to help those who suffer from the disease better manage their care. Physicians will be able to use the registry to check patient records, access diagnostic information and send patients alerts about checkups and other aspects of care.
The registry will result in faster diagnosis, treatment and improved management for people living with diabetes, according to Ontario's health ministry.
The $150-million project is covered under the $741 million in funding over four years announced in July by Health Minister David Caplan for improved treatment, services and education to combat the epidemic of diabetes, which is expected to reach 1.2 million cases in Ontario by 2010.
The registry will also provide the health ministry with vital data that will allow it to channel resources better to combat the disease, says Karen Philp, vice-president of public policy and government relations for the Canadian Diabetes Society.
"Right now, there's no good data on what's happening across the province."
As for people with diabetes, "they're going to get better health care," as a result of the registry, says Philp.
Three regions will be used for the pilot project. "They'll work out all of the bugs and then expand it throughout the province," she explains.
An Ontario health ministry spokesperson says the areas where the pilot project will take place have not been selected.
Toronto Star