An online summary of key health information of all Australians, which can be viewed securely from anywhere at anytime, will be available by the end of this year.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The My Health Record is a digital summary of a patient’s key health information that will allow GPs and emergency workers to act efficiently in an accident where the victim is unable to speak.
Dr. Vince Roche from Moss Vale said as we lived longer, chronic and complex health issues arose more.
“Lots of us end up on a significant number of medications with a significant past health history. We can’t always remember exactly what we’ve been prescribed,” he said.
“My Health Record can inform emergency departments and instead of being treated like a total stranger, they know your past medical history, know what your medications and allergies are and that’s a huge help.”
Unless opted out by November 15, everyone will automatically get a My Health Record and the collection of information will be available.
Dr. Roche believes it will improve patient safety.
“If you were on the other side of Australia and you unexpectedly fall ill, all your information is available and that certainly makes the whole process much safer,” he said.
Privacy issues surrounding My Health Record have been addressed.
“There’s a lot of security built into My Health care to ensure your privacy,” Dr Roche said.
“Your information will be about as secure as your banking. Many people pay their rates and book their flights over the internet, there’s a lot of security in that and My Health Record is very secure as well.”
Patients have control and the power of veto on what is on their record.
“If something seems inaccurate, incorrect or you don’t feel comfortable with something being on your record, the patient can have it removed,” Dr Roche said.
“As a GP a huge part of my job is spent looking for information, I think it’s a huge step forward.”
South Western Sydney PHN CEO, Keith McDonald said, “People also might be surprised to know that they can link their record to another loved one’s in the case of care situations.”
“For parents this means they can manage their kid’s account as an authorised representative,” he said.
“This is a great advantage for families to stay connected and involved. Being fully informed in their loved one’s health journey can bring peace of mind.”
The My Health Record opt out period runs ends on November 15,2018. To find out more, visit
www.myhealthrecord.gov.au or call 1800 723 471.
