Strata Health Supports Bill C-72

“Strata Health applauds the Government of Canada formally recognizing the interoperability of health information technologies and the prohibition of data blocking that are both necessary to ensure patient safety, improve health outcomes and promote equitable care for Canadians” Kevin Jones, Senior Vice President, Strata Health Canada said, commenting on the landmark bill aimed at transforming Canada’s healthcare landscape. Bill C-72, “An Act respecting the interoperability of health information technology and to prohibit data blocking by health information technology vendors,” stands poised to move Canada forward on the health data interoperability journey.  

The driving force behind this bill is something every Canadian has experienced, the critical gap in health data sharing that compromises both patient safety and the ability to improve healthcare outcomes. These gaps were well captured by the paper “Interoperability Saves Lives” published by the Healthcare Data Interoperability Working Group in October of 2023. The Health Data Interoperability Working Group was launched by Alberta Virtual Care and is sponsored by Alberta Innovates. The identified challenges within the bill and the paper set the stage for a proactive approach by parliament to address systemic inefficiencies that have long plagued the healthcare sector.

Central to Bill C-72 is the recognition that interoperability of health information technologies is not just beneficial but essential. By ensuring seamless communication and data exchange between different healthcare providers and systems, the bill aims to empower patients and healthcare professionals alike. This interoperability is seen as a cornerstone for improving health outcomes and promoting equitable care nationwide, regardless of geographic location or healthcare setting. 

Moreover, the bill addresses the growing significance of digital health tools and virtual care, which have become integral components of modern healthcare delivery. By facilitating the use of eReferral, ePrescribing, and other digital innovations, Bill C-72 embraces the potential of technology to enhance healthcare accessibility and efficiency, particularly in remote and underserved areas. 

Crucially, Bill C-72 also takes a strong stance against data blocking, a practice that has hindered the free flow of health information. Prohibiting such practices by health information technology vendors ensures that patient data remains accessible and secure, thereby fostering trust in the healthcare system and safeguarding patient rights. This bill also opens the discussion around privacy legislation that currently creates barriers in the sharing of patient data. 

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes collaboration among federal, provincial, and territorial governments, Indigenous peoples, and key stakeholders to establish common standards for interoperability. This cooperative approach not only fosters a unified healthcare ecosystem but also supports evidence-based decision-making and innovation in healthcare delivery and research. 

Strata Health is passionate in our support of Bill C-72 as it represents a significant legislative stride towards a more connected, efficient, and patient-centric healthcare system in Canada. By prioritizing interoperability and prohibiting data blocking, the bill lays the foundation for improved patient care, enhanced healthcare delivery, and strengthened healthcare infrastructure nationwide.  

For more information on the new bill: Bill C-72