By the end of 2018 every Australian will have a My Health Record, unless they choose to opt out during a three-month opt-out perod from 16 July to 15 October.

The My Health Record system allows access to timely information about a patient via an electronic health record. This electronic record involves a summary of key clinical information for patients, such as allergies, current medications, immunisation history, current treatment, event summaries, hopsital discharge summaries, prescription and dispense records, pathology and diagnostic imaging reports.

ADA NSW has begun a series of briefings with the Australian Digital Health Agency, the Australian Government entity responsible for managing My Health Record, to better understand the benefits, limitations, what it means for dentists and what it means for patients.

There is no obligation on dentists to participate and, there is currently no dental software that is compatible with the My Health Record. However, dentists will be able to enter patient information through a Provider Portal. 

ADA NSW is seeking further information about My Health Record and we will be providing more comprehensive updates for you in the coming months.

There is more information about My Health Record at www.myhealthrecord.gov.au/for-healthcare-professionals.