Will the CIS Standards be mandated or regulated?
No. The CIS Standards outline recommended minimum software requirements for clinical information systems. They are not mandated or regulated. However, providers and software developers choose to adopt the Standards because they support consistency, improve interoperability and help prepare systems for future national digital health initiatives.
How do the CIS Standards relate to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety?
The Aged Care CIS Standards directly support Recommendation 68 of the Royal Commission, which calls for every approved provider to use a digital care management system that meets a national standard and connects with My Health Record. The ACCIS Standards help aged care homes use systems that meet these expectations and integrate with national digital health infrastructure.
Why are the GP CIS Standards needed?
GPs and primary care practitioners play a key role in supporting older people living in residential aged care homes. The GP CIS Standards define the minimum software requirements for clinical systems used in this context. They build on the ACCIS Standards to support more consistent digital practices across aged care and primary care, which helps improve continuity of care.
How do the CIS Standards support interoperability?
The CIS Standards promote consistent terminology, data structures and technical behaviours across clinical information systems. These elements are essential for interoperability because they allow information to move between systems without loss of meaning or the need for manual re-entry. When systems follow the same standards, they can exchange data more reliably and support better care.
How were the CIS Standards developed?
We developed the CIS Standards through a collaborative process that included workshops, webinars and targeted discussions with aged care providers, primary care clinicians, software developers, peak bodies and industry experts. This approach ensures the Standards reflect real operational needs and align with national digital health priorities.
Do the CIS Standards replace existing technical requirements?
No. The CIS Standards work alongside existing national technical specifications, information requirements and interoperability frameworks. They bring these elements together in a practical way for developers and providers, helping them understand the minimum requirements their systems need to support safe and reliable information sharing.
What benefits do the CIS Standards offer to providers and developers?
The CIS Standards help reduce duplication, enhance care information and support clearer communication between providers. For developers, the Standards offer a clear set of expectations and reduce uncertainty during product planning. For providers, they help ensure digital systems can support safer, more coordinated care.
Are more CIS Standards planned?
Yes. Additional CIS Standards are in development to support other parts of the health and aged care sectors. Each new Standard will follow the same collaborative development approach to ensure it remains practical, relevant and aligned with Australia’s digital health strategy.