Australians now have until October 15 to opt out of the Federal Government’s national digital health record system – otherwise a My Health Record will automatically be created for them.
So should you opt out? We’ve been following both sides of the debate – these articles for and against at The Conversation are a good starting point – and they both have valid arguments.
There’s no question that having your health data in one place that is digitally accessible from anywhere is useful.
But there is the risk of security and privacy breaches and the chance that your data could be used for other purposes – think the recent sharing of personal user information with third parties by online doctor booking service Health Engine.
But as a nurse, I can see the benefits, especially as people navigate the home care, aged care and hospital systems.
All your medical information in one place
Imagine this – Mum has had a fall and goes into hospital. Afterwards, she needs to use one of the Government’s Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) places in an aged care home before she returns home.
On advice from her GP, she applies for a home care package to help her stay at home with some assistance with house maintenance, cleaning and shopping.
A digital record could help you, your family and healthcare professionals track your medications and treatments and ensure everyone is aware of any health conditions or advance care planning.
There are privacy and alert settings you can set up too. You can choose what information is stored on the Record and who has access to it such as family members, carers and healthcare providers. Records or individual documents can also be locked so they are only available using a PIN code.
Importantly you can also opt to not allow your data to be shared for secondary purposes.
It’s worth finding out more.
You can call My Health Record on 1800 723 471 or use their online portal here.
