A major digital transformation in healthcare is underway in Catalonia: from now on, test results from private clinics will be automatically added to the patient’s public medical record. This initiative aims to significantly reduce diagnostic wait times, which have traditionally been among the longest in Spain.
Previously, patients who underwent tests in private facilities often had to repeat the same procedures at public hospitals. The reason was simple — the systems were not interconnected, and doctors had no access to existing scans. Now, thanks to the new platform, all images — from X-rays to CT scans — will be accessible for viewing and download anywhere within the Catalan healthcare system.
The platform will let not only doctors but also patients themselves manage their medical data. Users will be able to save their examination history, share results with relevant specialists, and even upload scans from clinics that are not yet connected to the network. Patient consent will be required for this, providing an extra layer of control over personal information.
The project is being implemented with the support of the Institut de Diagnòstic per la Imatge (IDI) and cost the budget nearly 1.4 million euros. The contractor was Tecnologías Plexus SL. Authorities in Catalonia believe this initiative will not only speed up diagnostics, but also improve the quality of medical care and simplify data exchange with other regions of Spain and European countries.
In the near future, the system will be accessible via a secure web interface from any device. This is especially important for people using private insurance companies: now their medical records will not be lost or duplicated. Catalonia’s healthcare system is focusing on integration and digitalization to cope with the growing demand caused by an aging population and the rise in chronic illnesses.
