Universal, unique numbers for anyone who enters the health system will be trialled this year.

A Unique Patient Identifier database is being created to reduce concerns of patient confidentiality, mistaken identity and unnecessary duplication, a Bermuda Health Council spokeswoman said.

“The UPI is an alphanumeric identifier that will be assigned to each individual resident and will identify a person when they utilise healthcare services in Bermuda,” she told The Royal Gazette.

“This number will only be accessed by healthcare professionals, insurers and the Bermuda Health Council and will not contain any health-related information.”

The spokeswoman added that the Health Council, through partnerships with health-system stakeholders, is always looking at ways to make the health system more efficient and enhance the quality of care.

“The Unique Patient Identifier database is being created to alleviate concerns of patient confidentiality, mistaken identity and unnecessary duplication.”

She added that the project was a collaborative effort between the Health Council and numerous stakeholders.

“The Health Council is in the process of completing the database; thereafter, there will be a period of piloting and testing. We anticipate engaging the public in early summer.”

According to health minister Jeanne Atherden, this will enable providers to better co-ordinate care as part of the push to improve the island’s “poorly integrated” health-information system.

Addressing the Association of Bermuda International Companies last week, she said: “For example, a Unique Patient Identifier can assist in prescribing and managing medications, monitoring and using diagnostic tests, which can help prevent hospitalisation. Importantly, this Unique Patient Identifier is a necessary foundation for an integrated electronic health system, so it is a fundamental step towards this larger health-reform goal.”