Reaccreditation by the Joint Commission International (JCI) represents a milestone of excellence and an ongoing commitment to the quality and safety of healthcare provided by Hospital Particular do Algarve – Gambelas. In this context, the Information Systems Department (ISD) plays a strategic and cross-cutting role, acting as one of the fundamental pillars supporting the success of the entire process, both within the accredited unit and across the HPA Saúde Group, through the adoption of the same technological solutions.
The role of Information Systems in quality and safety
Information Systems are responsible for ensuring that clinical and administrative information is properly collected, processed, stored and made available in a timely manner.
In a hospital environment, where critical decisions depend on reliable data, the robustness and integrity of systems are essential.
During the reaccreditation process, JCI rigorously assesses how information is managed, including aspects such as:
• Confidentiality and security of patient data;
• Controlled access to clinical information;
• Traceability of actions performed within systems;
• Support for clinical decision-making.
The ISD is therefore responsible for implementing and maintaining technological solutions that meet these requirements, aligning with international best practices.
Supporting standardisation and continuous improvement
JCI reaccreditation requires evidence of well-defined, monitored processes that are continuously improved. Information Systems enable:
• Automation of clinical and administrative processes;
• Reduction of human error through decision-support systems;
• Real-time monitoring of performance indicators;
• Production of essential reports for audits.
Without an adequate technological infrastructure, it would be extremely difficult to ensure consistency and uniformity across hospital processes.
Interoperability and system integration
One of the major challenges in healthcare is ensuring that different systems communicate effectively with one another. The ISD plays a crucial role in integrating:
• Electronic health record systems;
• Laboratory systems;
• Imaging systems;
• Administrative platforms.
This interoperability is essential to ensure a holistic view of the patient, a key aspect valued by JCI in terms of continuity and coordination of care.
Information security and cybersecurity
Protecting health data is an absolute priority. During reaccreditation, measures assessed include:
• Access control policies;
• Data backup and recovery systems;
• Protection against cyberattacks;
• Staff training in security best practices.
The ISD is responsible for ensuring that these measures are implemented, tested and continuously updated.
Training and support for healthcare professionals
Technology is only effective when used correctly. Information Systems therefore also play an important role in supporting the adoption of solutions that enable the organisation to meet the training needs of healthcare professionals, ensuring that they:
• Know how to use systems correctly;
• Record information in a complete and appropriate manner;
• Comply with established protocols.
This support directly contributes to data quality and, consequently, to the quality and safety of care provided.
The Information Systems Department is not merely a technical support function, but a strategic partner in the JCI reaccreditation journey, through the adoption and development of appropriate solutions. Its ability to ensure reliable, secure and accessible information is crucial for meeting international standards of quality and safety.
In an increasingly digital hospital environment, investing in robust and efficient Information Systems is an investment in excellence in healthcare and in patient trust.
Carlos Segundo
Director of Information Systems
HPA Saúde Group
15, April 2026
