RESOURCE | Digital Records – Charlie-Helen Robinson

The protection of our privacy is one of the key priorities leading up to the widespread adoption of digital health in Australia.

Here are some quick tips and resources to consider

Privacy of health information applies to all communications, not just paper records. Whether communicated or transferred via the telephone, facsimile machine or e-mail, and whether stored electronically, staff must maintain privacy and confidentiality.

Who makes the decisions about the security protections at your practice? What processes are in place with your staff? It is beneficial to promote a security culture within the practice.

The first obligation under the Act is to develop a privacy policy in compliance with the Act and then set in motion your information management processes for data security.

Much of the compliance obligation is to ensure a patient is aware of the practice’s privacy policy and procedures for handling their personal information. This can be achieved by carefully worded waiting room notices or posters, patient information sheets, and a practice privacy policy pamphlet. Nothing, however, will be a substitute for frank and effective doctor-patient communication.

News for Health professionals

Who is using digital health?

There are now tens of thousands of healthcare practitioners, public and private hospitals, community pharmacies and other healthcare providers connected to the My Health Record system, with more joining every day.

Conformant clinical software products

The Register of Conformity lists software products and the versions that have been assessed for conformance with national digital health requirements.

Private hospitals connected to the My Health Record system

My Health Record puts your patients’ health in their hands

By late 2018, everyone with a Medicare or Department of Veterans’ Affairs card will have a My Health Record, unless they opt out.