Dr John Lambert, who has been based out of Orange for the last 12 years in the role of intensive care specialist and critical care director, has been appointed chief clinical information officer for the newly created eHealth division of NSW Health which is launching a new electronic health strategy across the state.

He came to Orange in 2002 after his final year of advanced training in intensive care at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital  to take up the dual role for the Mid Western Area Health, now Western NSW Local Health District (WLHD).

“Orange and the WLHD has been the perfect training ground to equip me with the skills for this new and demanding role,” he said.

Dr Lambert who describes himself as a technical boffin, has overseen the introduction of the latest technology at Orange hospital which links to other regional hospitals.

“It was an exciting time to be part of developing and designing effective systems for the new Orange hospital which were a long way ahead of many hospitals in this state,” he said.

Developing a new voice over internet protocol system, which enabled doctors, nurses and other clinicians to communicate more effectively in the hospital is something he sees as a legacy.

Dr Lambert says he’s looking forward to moving up to a new position where he will work closely with information technologists and clinicians. 

“This is a role that has never existed in NSW in the new eHealth department and I will have the opportunity to shape this role.

“I am very impressed with the team I will be working with and it will provide an opportunity to achieve great outcomes for health in NSW,” he said.

Orange Health Service general manager Catherine Nowlan said the hospital congratulate’s Dr Lambert on his new role.

“This is a significant appointment and he has made a considerable contribution to the Orange Health Service over the past decade,” Ms Nowlan said.

janice.harris@fairfaxmedia.com.au