Changes needed in health information systems to support an ageing population

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Gerontology
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Health information systems (HIS) are crucial for evidence-based decision-making, especially in ageing societies.
• Current HIS require transformation to effectively support the complex needs of older adults.
• Integrating health, social, and long-term care data is vital for coordinated care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the necessary transformations in HIS to support healthy ageing.
• To emphasize the importance of interoperability, governance, and person-centred information.
• To highlight the role of advanced analytics and user engagement in improving care for older adults.

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of current challenges and requirements for HIS in ageing populations.
• Identification of key components for effective HIS, including data integration, interoperability, and governance.
• Emphasis on user-centred design principles, co-design with older adults, and ethical considerations.

Main Results:

• HIS transformation requires strengthened data collection, integration, analysis, and use across care sectors.
• Interoperability and governance are crucial for linking data and services, ensuring continuous care.
• Incorporating ageing-relevant data (functional ability, well-being, end-of-life) and advanced analytics can improve care quality.
• User-centred, accessible systems co-designed with older adults enhance relevance, equity, trust, and uptake.
• Robust ethical and legal frameworks are essential for responsible HIS design and implementation.

Conclusions:

• Transforming HIS is essential for supporting healthy ageing in rapidly ageing societies.
• A comprehensive, integrated, person-centred, and user-friendly HIS approach is needed.
• Ethical and legal frameworks must guide the responsible development and use of HIS for older adults.