Frequently Asked Questions

What is an electronic health record (EHR)?

An electronic health record (EHR) is a secure and private lifetime record of an individual’s health and care history, available electronically to authorized healthcare providers. In Nova Scotia, the EHR system, known as SHARE (Secure Health Access Record) creates a single, integrated record from patient information contained in several electronic healthcare information systems, such as hospitals and other diagnostic and treatment centres.

For more information about electronic health records, visit the Knowingisbetter site created by Canada Health Infoway, the federally funded not-for-profit organization that provides financial and other support to provinces in developing electronic health systems.

What information will SHARE maintain about me?

SHARE currently includes the following information:

• hospital admissions and discharge information
• lab results
• diagnostic imaging results in text form and a link to the images
• select clinical reports, such as discharge summaries, history and physicals, and consulting notes available electronically

SHARE captured information as each one came on board. Hospital visits and diagnostic testing done before SHARE is not included.

What information will SHARE maintain in the long term?

Future phases of SHARE will expand both the number and disciplines of healthcare providers who use SHARE, and the information that is shared, such as community pharmacists sharing information on prescription medication.  Other health services that will eventually be part of the system include public health, primary healthcare, cancer care, and addiction services.

What protections are on the system?

There are several levels of protection to assure patient information remains confidential.
These include:

• assignment of user name and password to all authorized users
• confidentiality agreements signed by authorized users
• auditing of user access
• privacy training to reinforce appropriate use of the system
• firewalls, anti-virus software, and system design to control access to patient information
• monitored and restricted access to computer servers

Will I be able to access my own files?

At this time, SHARE is focused on providing healthcare providers, such as your family doctor, with access to the best information for patient care decisions. Patients will continue to have access to their files upon request to their family doctor or the hospital where they were treated.

Who has access to my information?

Authorized healthcare providers have access to your electronic health record information. In Nova Scotia, an authorized healthcare provider is a health professional such as your nurse, doctor, nurse practitioner,  and pharmacist, and others who provide healthcare services to you.

Can I see who has accessed my electronic health record?

Yes, at any time you have the right to request:

• a record of who accessed your personal health information
• a copy of your personal health information
• a correction to your personal health information

You may request this information through the Department of Health and Wellness, Privacy and Access Office or you may call: 1-855-640-4765.