Integration of Complementary Information Platforms into the Health System in the Republic of Moldova: Case Study on Interoperability and Strategic Perspectives

Abstract

The integration of complementary information systems (CIS) is essential for strengthening evidence-based health services and increasing efficiency, traceability and patient safety. In the Republic of Moldova, the Automated Information System (AIS) has been complemented with various platforms: „Health Services Management”, e-Prescription, e-Certificate, etc., but fragmentation and lack of digital interoperability, assist in the absence of the Integrated Medical Information System. The article analyzes the advantages, problems and prospects of integrating CIS into AIS, taking into account international practice in the field of interaction. A qualitative methodology, substantiated by documentation, was applied and a multiple case study was conducted, based on local medical information systems, with the participation of the authors: „Electronic registry of COVID-19 patients”, „Informational registry of biospecimens within the Biobank” and „Hospital Manager SCH”, comparing its functionality and interoperability. In the absence of a national architecture and interoperability policy, the study highlighted the low level of interoperability between CIS and AIS, and identified technical and legislative barriers. The integration of SIC into AIS is incipient and partially aligned with international standards. It is recommended to adapt the SOA (Service-Oriented Architecture) architecture, which allows interoperability of different systems and applications, regardless of the development technology, alignment with ISO standards and the development of a national digital interoperability policy.