From October the My Health Record program will be launched for those wanting to use it, but many Young residents still do not understand what it is or what is will be used for.
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From Monday a range of local community engagement activities have begun informing locals in the Murrumbidgee region about the benefits and features of the My Health Record system.
The new system is an online summary of a person’s key health information including medical conditions, medicines, allergies and test results that will be available to be accessed by medical professionals when needed.
Every Australian will be offered a My Health Record unless they choose not to have one during the three month opt-out period from July 16 to October 15, 2018.
Australian Digital Health Agency CEO Mr Tim Kelsey said 31 Primary Health Networks (PHN) across the country will join the Agency to engage with consumers at the grass roots level.
“The Australian Digital Health Agency is implementing a comprehensive communication strategy to inform the Australian public about My Health Record, its security controls and benefits and their rights to opt-out.
“It is essential that everyone is able to make their own decision on participation,” Mr Kelsey said.
Murrumbidgee PHN CEO Ms Melissa Neal said at the local level people will be able to engage in many face-to-face settings to learn more about the My Health Record.
“Murrumbidgee PHN is very pleased to be supporting the Australian Digital Health Agency with local opportunities engaging with both healthcare providers and the general public about the My Health Record system,” Ms Neal said.
“Throughout the region we’re presenting information sessions at libraries and community groups, attending shows, expos and other local events, visiting shopping centres, and setting up street stalls in our smaller communities.
“You’ll also find us supporting our healthcare providers at GP clinics, local pharmacies, and hospitals.
“Please get in touch if you know of an event you would like us to attend, or if a community group you belong to wishes to have someone from our team present an information session, we encourage you to email us at digitalhealth@mphn.org.au,” Ms Neal said.
The opt-out period runs from 16 July to 15 October 2018 with consumers invited to visit www.MyHealthRecord.gov.au or call 1800 723 471 for more information.
Residents in Young can also follow the Murrumbidgee PHN on Facebook and Twitter to see when the team will be at an event near them.
