Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

51. To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the timeframe for the universal health/patient identifier; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2345/15]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I have indicated that the roll out of a system of health identifiers will be a key priority for 2015. The new identifier registers will be managed and operated by HSE. HSE has already established the necessary project management structure and is currently developing a comprehensive project plan which will be available to me shortly.

The principal benefits of health identifiers will be improvements in patient safety. Health identifiers will also underpin the wider eHealth agenda and facilitate improvements in the efficiency and effectiveness of our health services and improvements in customer experience. The use of health identifiers will also contribute to maintaining the confidentiality and security of sensitive patient data within the health care environment.