Today marks the beginning of the My Health Record opt out period, where people can choose not to have a digital health record.
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Thirty-one Primary Health Networks (PHN) across the country – including the Hunter New England and Central Coast PHN – will work with the Federal government’s Australian Digital Health Agency to inform the public of the benefits of My Health Record and their right to opt out.
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HNECC PHN CEO Richard Nankervis said: “Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network is very pleased to educate both providers and the general public about My Health Record.
“Consumers will be able to have meaningful conversations with our PHN’s Community Engagement Officer, and attend presentations to get the facts on the system.
“We are committed to providing accurate information about what My Health Record can do, so that everyone can weigh up the benefits.”
Mr Nankervis emphasised that each person’s My Health Record is empty until activated by the first medical practitioner using it or when the individual first opens it.
“Any concerns about past medical history being automatically uploaded can be debunked,” Mr Nankervis said.
People can also link their record to a loved one’s, making it easier to take care of them.
Parents can manage their kid’s account as an Authorised Representative. Elderly parents can appoint their adult child as a Nominated Representative to receive timely information from their medical practitioner.
“This is a great advantage to keep families connected and involved,” Mr Nankervis said. “Being fully informed in their loved ones’ health journeys can bring peace of mind.”
The Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network will hold stalls at community and health expos; give presentations to local community groups such as Men’s Sheds, Probus Clubs and CWA groups, and at libraries; attend interagency meetings; and meet with local service providers.
If a local resident wishes to have our Community Engagement Officer attend a group they belong to, they can contact the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network on 0447 049 159 or EDarby@hneccphn.com.au.
The opt out period runs from 16 July – 15 October 2018. Consumers are invited to view the website www.myhealthrecord.gov.au, or call 1800 723 471 for more information.