A FEDERAL government project to create online medical profiles of Australian citizens has received the support of some Redlands doctors.
Aqua Marine Medical Centre and Skin Clinic spokeswoman Barbara Lang said knowing what drugs a patient was taking, their allergies and health problems could help doctors avoid making medical mistakes during emergencies.
“Some people have complex health needs,” she said.
“Everyone is entitled to their own opinion but … it is really helpful.”
People have until October 15 to decide if they want a My Health Record.
About 20,000 Australians opted-out of having a record created on Monday, July 16, which was the first day of a three month period people could do so.
The federal government is spending $374.2 million to expand Australia’s My Health Record for every Australian.
This includes for babies and children listed on their parents’ Medicare cards.
Profiles for all Australians will be made from later this year for people who have not visited the Australian Digital Health Agency’s website or phoned 1800 723 471 to opt-out.
Federal health minister Greg Hunt said patients could benefit from having their summary health information available online for practitioners.
He said six million people had signed-up for an online health record in the past six years.
Privacy controls meant Australians could choose what information was uploaded and what family members, carers and healthcare providers could access their records.
Bowman MP Andrew Laming, who has a background in medicine, said sharing basic health information could save lives.
“People die every year because this basic information isn’t available to those who need it – I’ve seen it first hand,” he said.
“… Whether you’re visiting a GP or in an emergency room with a sudden illness or after an accident, healthcare providers will be able to access information about allergies, medicines you are taking and medical conditions you have been diagnosed with, as well as blood and other test results.
“Quick and accurate call-up of these records can reduce medication errors and ensure you get the right treatment – and that can make the difference between life and death.”
Mr Laming said consumer groups had lobbied the federal government to allow people to opt-out.
“… that’s been supported by all states and territories,” he said.
“My Health Record is among the world’s leading and most secure medical information systems.”
For more information about My Health Record, visit here.