AHHA supports the development of a comprehensive personal electronic health record for all Australians that chose to participate. My Health Record, with its inbuilt privacy and security controls set by the consumer, together with the legislative amendments relating to access by law enforcement bodies to My Health Record data, balances the need for better information and coordination of healthcare with the right to privacy.
The advantages of having individuals’ medical history in the one place, both for consumers and healthcare providers, are numerous. Apart from convenience, the potential benefits include better coordination of care among multiple healthcare providers, better informed decisions on healthcare that involve both the patient and the healthcare provider, reduced duplication of diagnostic tests, fewer adverse drug events and reduced hospital admissions.