Newfoundland and Labrador doctors are raising concerns about the rapid launch of a province-wide electronic health information system, fearing potential harm to patients and the departure of some physicians. The new system, CorCare, scheduled to go live on April 25, is designed to modernize healthcare in the region by replacing outdated systems like Meditech. It aims to streamline patient care, enhance efficiency, and facilitate data sharing across the province.
Over 250 physicians have signed a petition urging the health authority to stagger the implementation of CorCare to minimize risks associated with the transition. Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi, a dermatologist in St. John’s, supports the electronic system’s long-term benefits but criticizes the rushed rollout, citing increased patient safety risks due to the abrupt switch for many community-based doctors who are accustomed to different record-keeping methods.
Community physicians, particularly those operating on a fee-for-service basis, are wary of the 35-page agreement required to access CorCare Link, a component providing them with system access. They argue that making its use mandatory creates a hostile environment and could deter doctors from practicing in the region. Concerns include potential practice closures and financial liabilities for cyber breaches under the new agreement.
Dr. Sarah Tulk, a family physician, emphasized the challenges faced by physicians still reliant on paper-based records, warning of potential disruptions to patient care if they are forced to adopt the new system abruptly. A letter signed by Dr. Ogunyemi and six other community-based physicians highlights the urgency for a safe and fair implementation of CorCare and CorCare Link to avoid compromising patient access to care during the transition.
In response to the physicians’ feedback, NL Health Services stated its commitment to collaborating with the medical association and physicians to address concerns and enhance the healthcare experience. However, the health authority maintained that CorCare’s implementation would proceed as scheduled on April 25, without confirming any modifications.