Long-awaited patient records system to launch in May for central N.S.

Medical professionals in Nova Scotia’s central zone are eagerly anticipating the launch of a new patient records system next spring. The One Person One Record (OPOR) system has been in the works for over a decade and is set to revolutionize the way healthcare providers in the region manage patient information.

Initially planned for a staged rollout starting in November, the launch date for the entire central zone has been pushed back to May 9, 2026. Nova Scotia Health cites the need to ensure a smooth transition and set up users for success as the reason for the delay. The unified system will standardize record-keeping practices across the central zone, benefiting those who work at multiple sites.

Dr. Amanda MacDonald Green, a family physician and president-elect of Doctors Nova Scotia, acknowledges the importance of the new system despite the delays. She highlights how OPOR will streamline workflows and provide easy access to critical patient information, such as hospital visits and test results.

The implementation of OPOR will initially focus on acute care visits, with plans to eventually allow family doctors to contribute their own records. This comprehensive approach aims to provide healthcare professionals with a complete view of a patient’s medical journey, improving care coordination and patient outcomes.

Beyond the technological upgrade, Nova Scotia Health emphasizes that OPOR represents a fundamental shift in how the healthcare system operates. By replacing or connecting over 80 existing programs, the new system will simplify workflows for all healthcare employees, from physicians to food service providers.

While the new timeline for OPOR’s launch may impact costs, the Nova Scotia government remains committed to investing in the digital records system. With the hiring process for support staff nearing completion, the integration of OPOR is on track for the central zone. Dates for rollout in other zones across the province are yet to be announced.

As healthcare professionals eagerly await the benefits of OPOR, the upcoming launch represents a significant milestone in Nova Scotia’s journey towards a more efficient and integrated healthcare system.