Australia’s Department of Health and Aged Care Appoints First Chief Digital Information Officer
Australia’s Department of Health and Aged Care has made a significant move by appointing its first chief digital information officer, marking a milestone in the department’s digital transformation efforts.
The Appointment
Fay Flevaras, who currently serves as the department’s first assistant secretary of digital transformation and delivery overseeing aged care reforms, has been selected for the newly established role after a rigorous recruitment process that commenced in October.
As per a spokesperson from DOHAC, the chief digital information officer will be responsible for overseeing the department’s ICT capability, managed by the Information Technology Division and Digital Transformation and Delivery Division. Flevaras’ role will involve driving a department-wide digital focus, beginning with laying the groundwork for aligned strategy, governance, and digital investment.
“The CDIO role underscores the critical importance of digital capability in shaping and delivering departmental outcomes, as well as the significant digital investment within the Health portfolio,” the spokesperson highlighted.
The Larger Context
Health’s digital strategy encompasses the modernization of its digital ecosystem. In late 2023, DOHAC unveiled its 10-year Digital Health Blueprint and corresponding action plan. This blueprint outlines the federal government’s extensive commitment to digital health, including the modernization of My Health Record and enhancements to essential digital systems in aged care. The department also recently revamped its National Digital Health Strategy, steering the health system towards personalized and preventative healthcare.
