What is interoperability in healthcare and why does it matter?
Interoperability in healthcare is the ability for multiple clinical systems to exchange and use information in a consistent format, in a way that adds value at every stage of the patient journey. When systems cannot share data reliably, the gaps appear as delayed results, duplicated data entry and clinicians making decisions without a complete picture. For radiology and pathology practices across Australia and New Zealand, a connected data environment reduces administrative burden, improves accuracy and supports better patient outcomes across every workflow.
What is the difference between HL7 and FHIR?
HL7 (Health Level 7) is the long-established standard for data exchange between clinical systems including RIS, LIS, PAS and EMR platforms. It underpins most healthcare integrations operating in Australia and New Zealand today. FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) is the next generation of that standard, using a modern API-based approach that is better suited to digital-first care environments. FHIR enables more flexible, structured data exchange and is the direction Australian and New Zealand healthcare is actively moving toward. See https://kestral.com.au/how-kestral-is-leading-fhir-erequesting-for-australian-radiology/ for a full breakdown.
Does Karisma support FHIR eRequesting?
Yes. FHIR eRequesting is live in Karisma through an integration with Magentus. Practices ready to move to structured electronic requesting should contact Magentus to initiate the process. Kestral manages the technical integration from there. Structured eRequests deliver referral information in a consistent, machine-readable format, reducing manual handling for booking staff and ensuring clinicians receive the clinical context they need in a usable form.
What is the KMG+ gateway and what does it do?
KMG+ is Kestral’s advanced messaging gateway, built on HL7 standards. It connects health information systems including RIS, LIS, PAS and EMR platforms for secure, reliable data exchange. KMG+ adds SSL security capabilities, advanced alerting on messaging events and compatibility with emerging standards including FHIR. For practices managing complex integration environments, it provides the visibility and security controls needed to maintain a stable, connected workflow.
What is the K-Link API Gateway?
K-Link is Kestral’s interoperability API, designed for practices that need integration beyond the core clinical environment. Where HL7 connects clinical systems, K-Link enables connection to ancillary workflow systems, giving practices the flexibility to build data flows that suit their specific operational needs. For full detail, see https://kestral.com.au/which-karisma-api-best-suits-your-business/ and https://kestral.com.au/online-bookings/.
Is Kestral involved in FHIR standards development in Australia?
Yes. Kestral is an active participant in the adoption and implementation of FHIR standards across both radiology and pathology in the Australian market. This work goes beyond building to the standard. Kestral is engaged in how FHIR is being shaped and applied in real clinical environments, contributing to an approach that delivers practical value for practices and patients rather than compliance for its own sake.
What are the operational benefits of interoperability for practice managers?
A well-integrated practice environment reduces the manual handling that comes from systems that cannot communicate. Staff spend less time re-entering data, chasing referral details or managing errors that stem from unstructured information. Results return in formats that receiving systems can use directly. Referrals arrive with clinical context intact. For practice managers, the day-to-day impact is fewer administrative workarounds, more reliable data and a workflow that keeps pace with the expectations of referrers and patients alike.