On-going

Way Forward Commitment:

We are living in the age of analytics where data is the renewable resource of the future. Government agencies are the holders of considerable public data that has the potential to be used by researchers and the private sector to develop new products, services and solutions while also creating business and job opportunities. We will help unlock the potential of data by initiating the development of a regulatory framework in 2019 for the commercial use of health and genetics data that is respectful of existing privacy legislation and ensures a scientific and financial return to Newfoundland and Labrador.

Throughout the world, health data is also being used to analyze population health and disease patterns, predict risk and negative events and, ultimately, improve patient experience and care. In 2018-19, our government will launch, under the leadership of the Newfoundland and Labrador Centre for Health Information, an online Provincial Health Data Lab to provide researchers and entrepreneurs with secure access to health data, such as laboratory test results.

What We’ve Accomplished:

• Funding has been received totaling more than $9 million from ACOA’s Business Development Program for the Newfoundland and Labrador Centre for Health Information (NLCHI) to lead three new initiatives to improve clinical care and healthcare outcomes, and help foster growth in the province’s life sciences sector.
  • A Provincial Health Data Lab which will catalogue and store health data;
  • A pilot project to enhance telehealth in rural areas; and
  • An improved system to electronically order medical processes and procedures.
• The Provincial Health Data Lab is currently under development. A phased approach to operationalization is planned with a targeted launch of April 1, 2020.

News Releases:

Supporting Healthcare Innovation to Benefit Residents and Create Economic Opportunities