Michael McHale , 2025-05-13 07:30:00
Initiative unveiled at Maynooth University’s Digital Health Summer School
A new initiative could ‘leapfrog’ Ireland from one the of the worst European countries for adopting digital health to one of the best, a conference has heard.
The plan, entitled Mission 10X, promises to deliver healthcare in Ireland that is 10 times faster, cheaper and smarter than that offered by the current system, and that also enables comprehensive patient-managed care.
At the core of the new plan is SPINE, or Secure Patient Information Network Exchange, an individual electronic health record system which already supports over 15,000 patients in Ireland. It aims to improve patient outcomes, health economics, and clinician experience and productivity, by addressing patient information fragmentation.
Mission 10X recommends a phased investment in SPINE, starting with an initial €10 million feasibility study, scaling to a €100 million nationwide deployment that would see every citizen offered a personal electronic health record.
Prof Martin Curley, Maynooth University
“The best way to predict the future is to innovate it,” said Prof Martin Curley of Maynooth University, who previously held the role of director of digital transformation at the HSE.
“We have all the knowledge and technology to build and scale a world-class health and wellness system—powered by open, intelligent technology and centred on patients, not paperwork.”
The concept was launched at Maynooth University’s two-day Digital Health Summer School which concludes today.
“Despite Ireland’s wealth and EU digital rankings, we lag in digital healthcare,” said IBEC chief executive Danny McCoy. “Mission 10X provides an essential leapfrog solution that we must adopt immediately.”
Voicing support for the plan, Dr John Sheehan of Blackrock Health, said: “With a modest initial investment of €10 million, Ireland can create a scalable digital health system, mirroring Estonia’s successful model. This is a historical opportunity we cannot afford to miss.”
Stephen McMahon, IPA
Stephen McMahon, Head of the Irish Patients’ Association, also backed the move to digital healthcare: “This is a digital health revolution—a beacon of hope and healing for patients today and future generations. Mission 10X shows that together, we truly can transform healthcare.”
Other healthcare innovations demonstrated at the conference, which organisers believe could form part of an integrated Irish digital health ecosystem, included:
- An AI-integrated smartwatch capable of real-time fall detection, direct care operator communication and instant patient record updates;
- AI-driven screening technology deployable at pharmacies, GP practices, primary care centres and homes, to bring proactive screening into local settings; and
- Voice AI technology providing multi-lingual communication and customised podcasts to improve patient understanding and adherence.
The event was opened by Minister for Further and Higher Education James Lawless. He said: “Today’s event exemplifies higher education’s potential to profoundly impact society, showcasing Maynooth University’s commitment to innovation beyond academia.”
