NIGEL – EMM is actively promoting the effective use of technology to improve healthcare, of which E’Health is a fine example.

E’Health is an interlinked computer system that allows for patients to be registered electronically upon producing an official identification document when visiting local clinics. The municipality claims it will make a great impact on waiting times, management of medication and the elimination of duplication of treatment (where patients receive medication from more than one clinic).

Whereas sister Charlotte Wheeler from Nigel Health Clinic expressed her support towards the system, senior administration clerk at the Alrapark Extension 3 Clinic, Sipho Butelezi demonstrated its effectiveness.

He explained how the system works and how captured data can be useful in improving certain health services and the allocation of resources. Sipho assured HERAUT that, contrary to the previous system where a patient file contained sensitive patient information, e-files are kept strictly confidential.

More good news is that patients with chronic illnesses will be sent short text messages reminding them of their next consultation date, as the system will soon be linked with an SMS notification system.

While the municipality is in the process of phasing in the system, residents are urged to adhere to requests to produce identification documents and to keep to their appointment dates to prevent overcrowding at clinics.