In a significant development for the healthcare industry, the Crisafulli Government of Queensland has officially launched its new Open Hospitals real-time health data portal, marking a major commitment outlined in their 100 Day Plan.
This initiative aims to enhance transparency and accessibility for Queenslanders seeking medical care. As of February 2, 2025, the portal is now live, showcasing crucial metrics such as patient wait times, emergency department (ED) traffic patterns, and available treatment spaces across 25 major hospitals and seven Satellite Hospitals.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Tim Nicholls, emphasised the importance of this new tool, stating, “Today the Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start for Queensland,” referencing the project’s potential to provide valuable insights into the performance of the state’s health system. In the official joint statement by The Honourable Tim Nicholls and The Honourable Steve Minnikinstates, Minister for Customer Services and Open Data and Minister for Small and Family Business, state that the data is said to be refreshed every 15 to 30 minutes, allowing for a near-instantaneous view into hospital operations.
Nicholls noted, “The community has access to information that tells them how critical infrastructure in the health system is performing and which will help them to make informed decisions about their healthcare options.” He further acknowledged the multi-faceted challenges facing the health sector, asserting that transparency is a critical first step in addressing the health crisis plaguing the system.
In addition to key performance indicators, the Open Hospitals portal provides users with information on alternative care options, including the Virtual Emergency Care Service, ensuring that residents can access appropriate care close to home. “Of course, anyone who needs emergency attention should go to their nearest emergency department or call an ambulance on Triple-0 (000) for assistance,” Nicholls advised.
As a healthcare IT provider, we recognise the importance of real-time data in improving patient outcomes and operational efficiency. The launch of the Open Hospitals portal is a pivotal move that not only aligns with ongoing shifts towards data transparency in healthcare but also sets a precedent for similar initiatives across the nation.
This landmark development illustrates the evolving landscape of healthcare IT infrastructure, focused on patient-centric service delivery. We are excited to monitor the positive impact this initiative is expected to have on the community and the healthcare sector as a whole.
Source: Queensland Government Media Statements. Available at: https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/101935