We wrote to you on 4 July about CareConnect and the Health Information Exchange, which we hoped would lay the groundwork for a private-sector Electronic Health Record. Regrettably, funding from major hospital groups and medical schemes was withdrawn, resulting in the closure of the HIE.
However, the RSSA strongly believes in the need for a unified radiology database in the private sector. Such a system would reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and illustrate how private radiology can integrate seamlessly into the broader healthcare delivery system while preserving the autonomy of individual radiology practices.
Since the closure of CareConnect, we have consulted with industry stakeholders and finalised a Request for Proposal for a radiology image and report-sharing exchange system. This system will facilitate the efficient and secure sharing of radiological images and reports among radiology practices across South Africa. You can access the RFP here.
To ensure broad distribution and transparency, we ask that you share the RFP with potential vendors who are capable of designing, implementing, and supporting a comprehensive radiology image and report-sharing system. We will also be distributing the RFP to radiology PMAs for their consideration.
Please note that the deadline for submissions is 31 October 2024.
Thank you for your support in this important initiative.