PREV-IS: A Comprehensive Information System for Preventive Healthcare in the Czech Republic

Abstract Issue Preventive healthcare in the Czech Republic is increasingly integrated into primary care, with general practitioners and gynaecologists acting as key coordinators. Despite existing screening programmes and monitoring, major barriers persist, including lack of real-time information sharing, no central booking system, and limited patient access to their screening results. These gaps undermine participation and programme quality. Description of the problem PREV-IS is a national digital health initiative being developed between 2023 and 2026 with support from the National Recovery Plan. Its main goals are to establish a national registry of preventive and screening examinations, enable real-time data sharing among providers, implement a central booking system, and support citizen engagement via digital tools such as eRequests and eCards. Minimum data standards are also being defined to unify inputs across care settings. Results PREV-IS aims to address these challenges through a unified digital platform. The system is being designed to include the National registry for preventive and screening examinations, a shared health record system for real-time communication, and a central booking system accessible to patients, referring doctors, and providers. The system builds on existing national eHealth components, such as eRequests and eCards, and is supported by defined minimum data standards. Lessons PREV-IS bridges systemic data and communication gaps in screening delivery. By integrating screening data in real time, reducing administrative duplication, and offering centralised booking, it boosts participation, efficiency, and follow-up quality. The development process has shown that early engagement with professional societies and all other stakeholeders within the National Screening Centre structures, and alignment with legislative changes are key. User education and transparent communication will facilitate adoption among both healthcare providers and citizens. Key messages • PREV-IS strengthens national screening programmes by enabling data sharing, central booking, and citizen access, improving coordination, participation, and outcomes. • PREV-IS demonstrates how national digital tools can enhance preventive services through integration, standardisation, and active involvement of both providers and citizens.