My Health Record update

As you will have read in the July e-Bulletin, the Australian Government announced in 2017 the creation of a My Health Record for every Australian by the end of 2018. This means that by the end of 2018, a My Health Record will be created for every Australian unless they choose not to have one.   If you decide you don’t want a record, you can tell the Government during a four-month period from 16 July to 15 November 2018. 

My Health Record has the potential to significantly improve the quality of care for both people with disability and people with complex health needs. It aims to provide a streamlined approach to care, creating an electronic health record for all Australians.  All of your health information will then be accessible to all healthcare professionals with benefits including things like preventing unnecessary tests, providing medical history for emergencies and reducing avoidable hospital admissions. It will also allow carers and designated family members to access relevant information, so they can provide better support.

There are risks of having personal data stored online but safeguards are in place for all accounts and it is possible to further reduce the risks by proactively managing your account.  You can decide which documents are accessible, control who can access information and see who has viewed your record.  If you would like more information, to opt out or to manage your health record, go to My Health Record website or call 1800 723 741.