The Decibel Canada’s fragmented medical records system
Apr 15, 2025
Chris Hannay, a staff reporter at the Globe and Mail, sheds light on the chaos of Canada’s medical record system. He discusses the struggles patients face when accessing their own data due to disconnected systems. The podcast highlights emotional stories, like a woman’s battle for her late husband’s records, revealing the inefficiencies at play. Hannay also contrasts Canada's challenges with international models, exploring how interconnected data systems could innovate healthcare for improved patient outcomes and public health research.
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Accessing Deceased Husband's Records
- A woman struggled to access her deceased husband's medical records.
- After a two-year journey, she discovered a crucial genetic test result that was never communicated.
ER Doctor's Access Issue
- A Toronto ER doctor couldn't access a patient's ultrasound from a private clinic.
- They had to order a new scan, wasting time and resources.
Faxed Medical Records
- Dr. Rosemary Lall's office received patient information via fax from a hospital.
- The fax contained a URL and passcode for downloading information, highlighting system incompatibility.