Nursing informatics issues and progress in New Zealand.

This paper presents an updated view of progress made in health informatics in New Zealand since 2003 and also highlights current issues facing nursing informatics. The progress made in health informatics in New Zealand since the national health information development "Working to Add Value through E-information" Project was introduced is outlined. A new Health Information Strategy for New Zealand 2005 has been released to guide the use of innovative information to improve the health outcomes of New Zealanders. This strategy reflects the global trends in healthcare related to epidemiological, demographic, system structure, workforce, service delivery changes and the increase in consumer expectations.