The 2010 CHIK Services Health-e-Directory is being published at an exciting time in Australian health and e-health reform.
 
The health reform agenda which the Australian Government has under way includes a very significant e-health component. 
 
Both the final report of the National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission (NHHRC) and the Draft National Primary Health Care Strategy identify advancement in e-health as an essential "enabler" of health reform, in helping to create a health system that puts the patient in more control of their personal care. 
 
The Government believes that eHealth solutions can improve the safety and quality of healthcare services, enabling accurate information to be collected and exchanged between health care providers while maintaining confidentiality.
 
The Australian Government’s response to the reform proposals will be based on extensive consultation with the Australian public and all aspects of the health sector, as well as the States and Territories.
 
The National E Health Transition Authority - supported by the Australian, state and territory governments - is already working with healthcare providers and the health ICT industry to develop nationally consistent e-health foundations, technical specifications and standards.
 
The CHIK Services Directory 2010, like previous versions, will assist health managers to find and implement the latest information and communication technology appropriate to their work - maximising the effectiveness and efficiency of healthcare delivery in Australia.
 
The directory provides a showcase for the innovative and high quality work currently being undertaken by the Australian e-health industry.  
 
I thank CHIK Services for their contribution as we enter a new phase in the implementation e-health systems and solutions in Australia.
 

The Hon Nicola Roxon MP
Minister for Health and Ageing