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Asthma Australia is to partner with the Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) to provide information for members and stakeholders about the My Health Record Expansion Program.
The partnership aims to provide information about My Health Record and its benefits for all Australians, and to advise those who choose not to have one how to opt out of the process.
By the end of 2018, the Agency will have a digitised My Health Record for all Australians except those who opt out. Doctors, pharmacists and authorised healthcare providers will be able to access a person’s My Health Record to assist in their treatment of patients and issues such as prescription of medicines and advance care planning.
Asthma Australia will communicate the benefits of My Health Record which include reduced hospital admissions, reduced duplication of tests, better-coordinated care, and better informed treatment decisions.
Asthma Australia CEO, Michele Goldman, said “Asthma is a complex disease and often has other related conditions that may affect treatment, so we welcome the introduction of My Health Record for those who choose to participate.
As many health professionals may be involved in the care of a person with asthma including their GP, pharmacist and possibly specialists or hospital staff, having a person’s complete health information accessible to those who need it can enable better treatment and improved health outcomes for people with asthma.”
Agency CEO Tim Kelsey said that the benefits of digital health for patients are significant and compelling.
“Having a My Health Record means that your important health information such as allergies, current conditions and treatments, medicine details, and pathology and diagnostic imaging reports can be digitally stored in one place.
“My Health Record also places Australians in control of their healthcare and gives authorised healthcare providers secure digital access to key health information at the point of care, wherever that may be,” Mr Kelsey said.
People who choose not to have a My Health Record will be able to register not to have one during a three-month opt-out period occurring between 16 July and 15 October.
For further information on My Health Record go to www.myhealthrecord.gov.au