Carers Australia is to partner with the Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) to provide information about the My Health Record Expansion Program, its benefits to carers and those they care for.
These benefits include reduced hospital admissions, reduced duplication of tests, better-coordinated care, and better-informed treatment decisions. Those who choose to opt out of the process will be advised how to do so.
By the end of 2018, the Agency will have a digitised My Health Record for all Australians except those who choose to opt out. Doctors, pharmacists and authorised healthcare providers will be able to access a person’s My Health Record to assist in the treatment of patients, prescription of medicines and advance care planning.
Carers Australia CEO, Ara Cresswell, said there are many benefits to carers of those they care for having a My Health Record.
"It can lessen the stress of having to remember details of the diagnoses and treatments of others, and help prevent adverse medication events. The ability to upload patient’s end-of-life preferences can also lessen the distress of those forced into making very difficult decisions on behalf of a family member not able to communicate their own wishes."
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 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.
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