7.2. HHIMS:
7.2.1. What is HHIMS?
In Sri Lanka, HHIMS stands for Hospital Health Information Management System. It is a free and open-source software platform developed to modernize and digitize the state health sector.
The system was originally launched in 2012 through a collaboration between the Ministry of Health and the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) of Sri Lanka. Its primary goal is to transition hospitals from traditional paper-based record-keeping to a streamlined electronic system, improving the quality, safety, and efficiency of patient care.
Key Features and Capabilities:
HHIMS functions as a comprehensive medical database that integrates several aspects of hospital management into a single platform:
- Electronic Medical Records (EMR): Stores clinical details, symptoms, and diagnoses using international standards like ICD-10.
- Outpatient (OPD) & Inpatient Management: Tracks patient journeys from registration to discharge.
- Pharmacy & Inventory: Automates drug ordering and provides real-time updates on stock levels to prevent shortages.
- Laboratory & Radiology: Integrates lab investigations and imaging (PACS) for faster access to results.
Impact on Healthcare:
As of early 2026, HHIMS has been implemented in over 80 government hospitals across the island, including major institutions like the National Hospital of Sri Lanka. It has registered more than 9.5 million citizens and maintains over 23 million electronic records.
By reducing the time doctors spend on paperwork, the system allows for more direct patient interaction. For administrators, it provides "data-driven" insights to detect disease outbreaks early and manage resources more effectively. While the project was spearheaded by ICTA, management is being fully transitioned to the Ministry of Health to ensure its long-term sustainability as part of Sri Lanka's Digital Health Blueprint.
Comparison: Manual System vs. HHIMS:
| Feature | Traditional Manual System | Digital HHIMS System |
|---|---|---|
| Record Access Time | Minutes to hours (physical searching) | Instant (seconds) |
| Data Accuracy | High risk of handwriting errors | Standardized digital entries (ICD-10) |
| Information Sharing | Delayed (physical file transfer) | Real-time across departments |
| Data Security | Vulnerable to physical loss/damage | Encrypted, role-based access |
| Inventory Management | Manual stock counts & paperwork | Automated real-time stock alerts |
*Based on ICTA performance metrics for the Sri Lankan state health sector (2025/2026).
7.2.2. Central Province HHIMS Implementation:
The Hospital Health Information Management System (HHIMS) has transformed healthcare delivery in the Central Province by digitizing patient records and hospital workflows. This initiative, supported by the PDHS Central Province, focuses on improving patient safety and operational efficiency.
BH Rikillagaskada
Since its launch in 2022, BH Rikillagaskada has registered over 65,000 patients. The hospital has achieved a "paperless" approach in many areas, including:
- Digital OPD & Clinics: Real-time patient tracking and digital prescriptions.
- Cost Savings: Moving to digital X-rays (PACS) has saved significant funds previously spent on physical films.
- Efficiency: Reduced waiting times in pharmacies through automated prescription routing.
BH Theldeniya & BH Dickoya
At BH Theldeniya, patients are issued a barcode-enabled ID card that serves as their permanent medical key. This system has been active for over three years, ensuring that doctors can instantly access a patient's entire medical history, including allergy data and past treatments. Similarly, BH Dickoya utilizes these digital tools to manage high patient volumes and streamline hospital admissions.
Implementation Spotlights:
HHIMS @ BH Rikillagaskada
A look at how BH Rikillagaskada successfully digitized its OPD and clinic operations.
HHIMS @ BH Theldeniya
Demonstrating the digital registration and pharmacy management at BH Theldeniya.