Professor Evelyn Hovenga, from CQU's Health Informatics Research Group, has been in Chile during March for the signing of agreements with 3 universities and associated hospitals.

She has been accompanied by Dr Sebastian Garde and Dr Carol Hullin.

Professor Hovenga (yellow jacket) is pictured at the Australian Embassy in Santiago for a signing ceremony between CQU and the University of Mayor.

Professor Hovenga (yellow jacket) is pictured at the Australian Embassy in Santiago for a signing ceremony between CQU and the University of Mayor.

"We're now busy with many meetings to discuss implementation and develop various project proposals," Professor Hovenga said.

"I'm particularly pleased with the support we are receiving from the Faculties of Medicine and medical specialists who are keen to work with us. This should drive significant international participation as these people all have strong international professional research links".

Professor Hovenga's visit has prompted a range of newspaper articles in Chile.

This month's activity follows news in late 2006 that CQU will work with the 'Digital Agenda' for the roll-out of e-Health initiatives throughout Chile.

CQU last year signed a Memorandum of Understanding (Monday, November 13 at CQU Sydney International Campus) with the Chilean Ministry of Health to build the capacity of the health informatics workforce in areas including electronic health records, telemedicine, web-based medical technologies and educational programs.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed between CQU Vice-Chancellor Professor John Rickard and Chilean authorities, including Minister of International Affairs Alejandro Foxley and the Chilean Ambassador in Australia Jose Luis Balmaceda. These authorities were representing the Health Minister of Chile Dr Maria Soledad Barria and the 'Digital Agenda' department led by Rodrigo Caravantes.

Professor Hovenga said the Australians would work with the Chilean Government to guide development of Information Communication Technologies (ICT) throughout Chile as part of wider health reform.

"We'll be providing consultancy, strategic support, technical visits, training for government personnel and education programs for healthcare professionals," she said.

Professor Hovenga's visit has prompted a range of newspaper articles in Chile.

CQU has been actively involved with the Chilean health system for the past 2.5 years, and this agreement will formalise these links in a climate where Chile has committed significant resources to e-Health implementation as part of a national 'Digital Agenda'.

"All parties to the Memorandum of Understanding are committed to collaborate in research projects and to foster academic activities. There'll be shared development of initiatives and projects," Professor Hovenga said.