Richard Taggart Joins eHealth NSW as New Digital Health Leader
Sydney, Monday, 20 January 2025.
Richard Taggart, with over 20 years of ICT experience, is appointed Chief Executive and CIO of eHealth NSW, aiming to transform digital healthcare and enhance patient experiences in New South Wales.
Strategic Leadership Transition
As of January 20, 2025, Richard Taggart has officially stepped into his role as the permanent Chief Executive of eHealth NSW and Chief Information Officer for NSW Health [1][2]. Bringing a unique combination of clinical pharmacy background and extensive ICT expertise [1], Taggart’s appointment marks a significant shift in the organization’s leadership. His previous position as National Director of Digital Health at Calvary Health Care [1], coupled with his role as Chief Information Officer for Sydney Local Health District from 2019 to 2023 [1], demonstrates a strong track record in healthcare technology leadership.
Digital Healthcare Innovation Focus
Under Taggart’s leadership, eHealth NSW, which currently manages approximately $41.9 million in revenue and oversees 304 employees [4], is poised to continue its mission of electronic health information management. The organization’s primary focus remains on delivering safer and more efficient healthcare services through digital innovation [4]. During his tenure at Sydney Local Health District, Taggart led several landmark initiatives, including the implementation of NSW Health Vaccination Centre systems and the establishment of the RPA Virtual Hospital [1], showcasing his capability to drive large-scale digital health transformations.
Future Vision and Implementation
Taggart has expressed his commitment to building upon eHealth NSW’s existing foundation of innovation and service delivery [1][3]. His immediate priorities include engaging with stakeholders across the health system and developing a comprehensive understanding of the organization’s operations [1]. ‘Over the next few months, my focus will be on meeting the incredible people at eHealth NSW and across the system and getting to know the business in more detail to be better able to set its future direction,’ Taggart stated [1].
System-Wide Digital Transformation
Operating from its headquarters at Tower B Level 16 Zenith Center in Chatswood [4], eHealth NSW is positioned to enhance patient care through improved online accessibility of health information across New South Wales [4]. The organization’s approach to digital health transformation aligns with the broader goal of creating a more integrated and efficient healthcare system, with Taggart emphasizing the importance of meeting both staff and public needs in NSW’s digitally enabled health system [1][3].