To ask the Minister of Health to detail any impact of EpicCare Link implementation on (i) theatre lists and scheduling efficiency; and (ii) electronic consultations and encounters, including whether a formal evaluation has been carried out.

My Department does not hold analysis which attributes changes in theatre lists, scheduling efficiency, or electronic consultations and encounters directly to the implementation of EpicCare Link.

EpicCare Link provides authorised primary and community care users with predominantly read only access to patient information held within the encompass system. It is designed to support safer and more informed clinical decision making through improved access to information and is not intended to directly influence theatre scheduling, service efficiency or the volume of clinical encounters.

The planning, scheduling and delivery of theatre activity and outpatient services, including electronic consultations, are the responsibility of Health and Social Care Trusts and are supported by a range of clinical and operational systems and processes.

No formal evaluation has been undertaken to isolate the impact of EpicCare Link on these areas.