Definition
‘A secure, legislated, patient-controlled, electronic summary of an individual’s key health information, able to be accessed by authorised individuals and registered healthcare providers involved in a person’s care anywhere in Australia at any time.’
Some Facts
- Opt out period ended 31st of January, and if you haven’t already opted out you will automatically be set up with a MHR.
- MHR Amendment (strengthening privacy) Bill 2018.
a) Consumers can choose to have or cancel a MHR at any point in their life.
b) Cancelling a MHR will now permanently delete their record, including any backups.
c) All records that have previously been cancelled will also be permanently deleted from the system.
d) If a person changes their mind, they can choose to register for a record to enjoy the benefits of controlling their health information securely in one place so support their health care. - The use of MHR for insurance and employment purposes is not healthcare therefore is not authorised.
- No information within MHR can be released to law enforcement or government agencies without an order from a judicial officer. To date, the Agency has never received such a request and has never released information.
- Authorised representative no longer has default access to MHR when a child turns 14 years.
- Protections for domestic violence victims has been strengthened.
Links for more information
Legislation Changes: https://www.myhealthrecord.gov.au/about/legislation-and-governance/summary-privacy-protections
Frequently asked Questions: https://www.myhealthrecord.gov.au/for-you-your-family/howtos/frequently-asked-questions
