New digital system will improve patient care and support safe, human-led AI
As part of its commitment to advancing patient care through innovation, William Osler Health System (Osler) is investing in a new hospital information system (HIS), set to launch in October 2026. This landmark technology investment will replace multi systems and paper-based records with one complete digital record, making it easier for care teams to access and share information, and help patients and families receive safer and more effective care. Transitioning to the new HIS is one of the largest clinical transformations in Osler’s history, and will create a smoother, more connected experience for patients and benefit the broader community.
Osler is working with Epic, a global leader in health record systems, to deliver this project.
"The implementation of our new hospital information system is about much more than technology," said David Stankiewicz, Vice President, Digital Transformation and Chief Information and Privacy Officer, William Osler Health System. "It will help our teams share information more easily, reduce duplication, and provide safer, more connected care.”
Improved patient experience
The system will create a single health record for each patient across Osler, so that care teams will be able to see the same up-to-date information no matter where a patient receives care within the organization. It will also reduce the need for patients to repeat their health history at each stage of their care.
Patients will also have access to their hospital records through Epic's MyChart portal. This secure online tool will let patients view test results, appointments, and other health information; it will also support smoother transitions between hospital services and community providers.
“Patients and families will experience more connected and personalized care at Osler,” said Sharon MacSween, Associate Vice President, Health Information System, William Osler Health System. "With one record that follows patients throughout their care journey means care teams can spend less time searching for information and more time delivering high-quality care."
Designing the future of care
The new system also gives Osler the opportunity to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) tools safely and responsibly, guided by current legislation and a people-centred approach. AI tools in Epic are designed to support, not replace, clinical decision-making – they will help care teams quickly identify important information, improve workflow, and strengthen communication, but clinicians will continue to make all decisions about patient care.
“Introducing Epic allows us to put strong safeguards in place as we adopt AI tools as part of our digital future," added Stankiewicz. "These tools will support our teams, but human judgment will always guide patient care.”
“Osler continues to evolve with our community, and strong digital systems are key to that growth,” said Dr. Frank Martino, President and CEO, William Osler Health System. “This new hospital information system will help us deliver more connected care and support better health outcomes for our patients and communities.”