Take a step forward with ‘My Health Record’
If you had to describe Bill Hardy’s passions, they would be fitness, health and travel.
After retiring, the 70-year-old now runs over 50s fitness classes after completing a Diploma of Fitness five-years ago.
“I have always been interested in health, which is why I started training mature aged men and women in strength and conditioning. It’s so important that as people get older, they keep active and look after their health.”
Bill’s passion for health extends to his My Health Record, where he keeps a summary of his health information securely online and can choose which medical professionals can see it.
“I think My Health Record is a great step forward in healthcare, making it easier for people to keep track of their key health information,” Bill said.
“I recently had my whooping cough and tetanus immunisations so I could visit some friends and their young baby in Melbourne. This information will go on My Health Record, so I know when my immunisations are due as they can be hard to remember.
“I can go to a doctor or hospital at any time, anywhere and they will know my health problems and what medications I am taking, which makes the whole process easier,” Bill said.
My Health Record brings together health information such as medical conditions, medicines, allergies and test results which can be viewed securely online. It can also contain your immunisation history, whether you choose to be an organ donor, and you can include your Advanced Care Plan.
It’s your choice about which medical professional can see your My Health Record, and what information you wish to share with the healthcare providers involved in your care. Some key things to remember about My Health Record:
• Your important healthcare information is available online, and easily accessible by you, your doctors, specialists or hospitals.
• When moving interstate or travelling, the information can be viewed securely online.
• In emergency situations, treating doctors can view information such as current medications.
• You don’t need to remember the dates of tests, medicine names or dosages.
• Because healthcare providers have access to clinical information prepared and shared by other health professionals, they may have a more detailed picture with which to make clinical decisions, diagnose and provide treatment.
By the end of 2018, a My Health Record will be created for every Australian, unless they choose not to have one. If people choose not to have a My Health Record, they will be able to opt out during a three-month period starting on Monday 16 July and ending on October 15 2018.
For more information visit: MyHealthRecord.gov.au or contact the Helpline on 1800 723 471.