Abstract
IZIP is a Web-based health record system for the general population which has been used in the Czech Republic since 2004. The system provides access to medical data for health-care providers and clients; only the latter can authorise health-care professionals to view their data. We conducted a cost-benefit analysis of the system. There was a strong positive overall economic return. The benefits to the clients were control and more effective care, estimated at about 10% of total gains. Professionals had the advantage of on-demand information and time savings, estimated to represent 37% of the benefits. The biggest partner of IZIP, the General Health Insurance Company of the Czech Republic was able to avoid duplicated tests and treatment, which amounted to 53% of the economic benefits. It took eight years to achieve a net cumulative benefit. The estimated annual net benefit exceeded €60 million in 2008.
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