The Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA) and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) have warned the Government's proposal to remove the 7-day delay for all pathology and diagnostic imaging reports on My Health Record may lead to misinformation and patient distress.
Both the RCPA and RACGP support sharing healthcare data with patients, but want the current 7-day delay for tests not already available in real time to remain in place. This allows doctors to help patients understand and interpret results in a safe and caring setting. The colleges also request the Government include them in any future consultation.
President of the RCPA, Associate Professor Trishe Leong, said patients should review results with a specialist.
"The RCPA believes that patients should be fully engaged in managing their care, and access to diagnostic information is part of that management," Associate Professor Leong said.
"We therefore support the sharing of information without barriers to access, such as the 7-day rule, overall. However, it is critical that if these delays are removed, consumers are advised to review their results with their GP or other specialist and are also provided with evidence-based information on pathology testing such as Pathology Tests Explained, and
