Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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196. To ask the Minister for Health the progress which has been made by his Department over the past three years in advancing health initiatives, in particular the timeline for the introduction of unique patient identification numbers and prescribing, as recommended by the troika; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48663/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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In order to progress the introduction of identifiers for individuals, professionals and organisations my Department is currently drafting a Health Identifiers Bill 2013 which will be published before the end of the year. The introduction of unique health identifiers will promote patient safety, progress the eHealth agenda and support administrative efficiency. It will also be required for other key health reforms such as Money Follows the Patient and Universal Health Insurance. I also intend to shortly publish an eHealth strategy which will provide an overarching framework for the development of eHealth in Ireland and, in particular, initiatives such as health identifiers, e-prescribing and other enablers for eHealth. My Department is engaging with a wide range of stakeholders including the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, the Data Protection Commissioner and Health Information and Quality Authority in relation to these matters.