2008

iSOFT delivers clinical systems in Malta

Order entry and results reporting are installed under a contract renewal for iSOFT’s patient management system. Agreed in May 2007, the contract extended the 12-year relationship with the Government of Malta and runs to the end of 2012.

iSOFT’s solutions are integral to the government’s strategy for an Integrated Heath Information System (IHIS) ensuring that clinical staff have ready access to complete electronic patient records.

A spokesperson for Mater Dei said: “The new systems are key to the IHIS and complement the other first-class facilities now available at the new hospital and are fundamental in improving the continuity and quality of care. With rapid access to detailed clinical information, for example, doctors can make speedier diagnoses so patients are treated sooner and leave hospital sooner.”

The introduction of order entry and results reporting integrating with departmental systems such as i.Laboratory is expected to bring about operating benefits in areas such as service quality, costs and efficiency along with better reporting. It also offers the opportunity to introduce new improved work processes in Mater Dei.

Through iSOFT’s integration engine, order communications is interfaced to iSOFT’s patient management system, iSOFT’s i.Laboratory system and Mater Dei’s radiology and picture archiving system. The next phase is to integrate the cardiology system.

iSOFT has agreed an accelerated implementation timetable to meet an urgent customer need. Paul Richards, managing director, iSOFT UK and Ireland, said: “We have an excellent working relationship with the government and hospital staff having now partnered with them for 12 years. The co-operation and dedication on both sides gives us the confidence to commit to ambitious project milestones. Both parties have injected energy and enthusiasm to make this project a success.”

The clinical system is now used on three wards with roll-out to all 40 wards at the Mater Dei expected over the coming months, followed by implementations at the remaining public hospitals and health centres in Malta and Gozo. Some 2,200 clinical staff at these sites are currently using Clinicom, including staff in accident and emergency. The system will also support 370 outpatient clinics at the 850-bed Mater Dei.

iSOFT is a sub-contractor to Affiliated Computer Services for its i.Laboratory information system under a separate contract.

iSOFT is an IBA Health Group company.