Launched in 2016, the Australian government’s digital health record system, My Health Record, allows you as well as doctors, hospitals and other healthcare providers to view your health information. This includes things like allergies you may have, treatments you’ve received, test results that have been issued, or any medications that you might be taking.
Why Is The My Health Record System Beneficial?
The system is personally controlled, meaning it is your choice who sees your My Health Record and what is in it. You can then choose whether or not you share your information with any health providers who are involved in your care.
By allowing them to view, upload and share documents, they will have a more detailed picture of your health status, which will allow them to make informed decisions, diagnose accordingly and provide the appropriate treatment. Because this is also a secure system with secure log-ins, firewalls and encryption, it also means safer and more efficient care for you and your family.
What If I Don’t Want A My Health Record?
As part of the 2017-18 Budget, the Australian Government announced that the My Health Record system would be transitioning to opt-out participation. This means that by the end of 2018, every Australian will have a record unless they choose to opt out of the My Health Record system. The My Health Record national opt-out period commenced on 16th July and will end on the 15th October 2018. After this My Health Record opt-out period, ie. if you haven’t opted out by the 15th of October, a My Health Record will be created for you.
If you still want a My Health Record, you don’t need to do anything – a secure record will be created for you by the end of 2018 provided you have a Medicare or a Department of Veterans’ Affairs card.
How Do I Opt Out Of The My Health Record System?
If you have registered an email address at myhealthrecord.gov.au and have asked for more information in terms of the opt-out process for the My Health Record system, you should have received an email from the Australian Digital Health Agency. This includes details on how to opt-out – either online at myhealthrecord.gov.au or by calling the Help Line on 1800 723 471. The Australia Digital Health Agency will only contact you once regarding the opt-out period and after that you will be removed from their mailing list. If you’re not sure if you have a My Health Record, you can visit the website for more information.
If you don’t want a health record, you don’t need a myGov account in order to complete the opt-out process, however, you will need to provide certain information in order to opt out including verifying your identity with a Medicare Card or a Department of Veteran’s Affairs (DVA) card. You’ll also need to provide one of the following forms of Australian identification:
• Your driver’s licence, or
• Your passport, or
• Your ImmiCard
On the website, you simply click the ‘Opt Out Now’ button, and verify your identity including providing personal details like your name and date of birth. If you complete this process online, you also have the option of receiving an email confirmation. Remember to check your junk or SPAM folder if you can’t see the email in your inbox.
If you have lost your Medicare card or you don’t know your Medicare number, contact Medicare to find out your details. Please note, that you may experience wait times when contacting the Department of Human Services call centre.
How Do I Opt Out On Behalf Of Children Or Dependants?
If you have parental responsibility for children under the age of 18 and they are listed on your Medicare card, you can opt out of My Health Record on their behalf. Simply follow the steps in the online process.
Children aged 14 and over may also choose to opt out individually online, however, they will need their Medicare number to do so. For other dependants you have legal responsibility for, contact the Help Line for assistance.
What If I Change My Mind About Having A My Health Record?
If you opt out of having a My Health Record but later decide you would like one, you can register for one again at the My Health Record website.
If you have any questions about your current My Health Record or you’re not sure how to undertake the My Health Record Opt Out process, either visit the website or give the Help Line a call:
Website: MyHealthRecord.gov.au
Phone: Help Line 1800 723 471
The My Health Record system helps us help you. Contact us today on (07) 3711 2880 to book your professional consultation.
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