China Moves Towards Nationwide Digital Medical Records System

In China, efforts are underway to establish a nationwide system for electronic medical examination records, providing healthcare professionals quick and easy access to patient data. According to Zhang Junjie, a cardiologist and delegate to China's 14th National People's Congress, this initiative will decrease patient burdens, both financially and physically.

Previously, according to Zhang, patients were often seen carrying heavy bags filled with physical X-ray films when visiting hospitals. This method was tiring for patients and cumbersome for doctors, who often struggled to secure comprehensive information from these physical records.

Recognizing the need for improved efficiency, Zhang presented a recommendation last year urging the government to accelerate the implementation of electronic records. This proposal led authorities in Jiangsu province to launch a digital platform in May, integrating medical imaging data from all public medical institutions across the province.

The introduction of this digital platform allows healthcare professionals to view patient imaging data swiftly and remotely through a simple click, eliminating the previous requirement for patients to manually carry physical imaging materials. Zhang highlighted that this system would significantly reduce duplicate testing, estimating potential savings for patients of approximately two billion yuan ($275 million) annually.

Further supporting the initiative, the National Health Commission in November emphasized the importance of increased data sharing and mutual recognition of medical examinations among healthcare establishments. Zhang stated confidently that technological advancements, combined with supportive policy changes, could soon make electronic medical records widely available across the country, boosting patient convenience and lowering medical expenses.