
More than 5,788,087 Australians and 11,633 health care providers are now registered for My Health Record.On 14 May the Australian Government announced that every Australian will be offered a My Health Record unless they choose not to have one, during the three month opt-out period that will run from 16 July to 15 October 2018.The My Health Record system and opt-out process have the full support of all state and territory governments. Federal Minister for Health Greg Hunt said My Health Record provides many benefits to patients, including reduced duplication of tests, better coordination of care for people with chronic and complex conditions, and better informed treatment decisions.
My Health Record also has unanimous support from Australia's peak health bodies, including the Australian Medical Association, the Royal College of Australian General Practitioners, Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association and the Consumers Health Forum.
During the opt-out period individuals who do not want a record will be able to opt-out by visiting the My Health Record website or by calling 1800 723 471 for phone based assistance. Forms will be provided on request, and additional support will be provided to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, people from non-English speaking backgrounds, people with limited digital literacy and those living in rural and remote regions.
Australia's 31 PHNs will also support their local communities with tailored communications on My Health Record, in partnership with consumer and clinical peak bodies and state and territory governments.
|