To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the policy changes needed to enable independent sector access to NHS Patient Combined Electronic Records, as per Independent Neurology Inquiry recommendations.

My Department agrees with the Independent Neurology Inquiry recommendations and supports the positive contribution to patient safety and quality of care that is achievable through access to accurate and timely clinical information throughout the care continuum, based on consent and / or legitimate interest.

As of July 2024, my Chief Digital Information Officer has initiated a Discovery Project, that builds on earlier engagements, through which relevant stakeholders can explore all the options for improved sharing of information between HSC and independent sector providers and develop the framework enabling and underpinning policy requirements.

The project will consider professional and clinical matters, legal and contractual issues, Information Governance and consent frameworks, Cyber Security requirements, and adjustments to the existing technical infrastructure required to enable safe, secure and appropriate healthcare information between HSC and our Independent Sector providers.