There are different types of electronic health records used in the Australian health system.
An electronic health record is a digital file that stores your health information. There are laws to keep health information safe and private. Information in electronic health records may include:
- Health conditions that you have.
- When you last visited a health service or health professional.
- Medicines that you take.
- Test results.
- Allergies that you have.
- Management advice or care you have been given.
Many health services use electronic or digital health records.
Be aware that there are different types of electronic health records. If you see a health professional using a computer to record your health information, don’t assume the electronic health record they are using can be seen by other health professionals.
Local electronic health records
Health services such as hospitals, general practices, specialist clinics, allied health services, community health and emergency services all use different types of electronic or digital health records. These electronic health record systems do not always connect or share information with each other and may not be accessed by health professionals in other health clinics or hospitals.
Examples:
If a patient moves interstate, an allergy nurse or doctor in a hospital in Sydney cannot access the electronic health records of a hospital in Melbourne.
Your GP cannot see the electronic health record held at your local hospital.
Referrals and doctors letters are used to share information between health providers however My Health Record is another way.
My Health Record is an electronic health record designed to help share information between you and the health care professionals providing your care.
My Health Record
My Health Record is the Australian Government electronic health record that is available in all states and territories of Australia.
When a health professional looks at My Health Record, they can see the information about your health history that has been recorded there. This information could include:
- allergic conditions
- blood test results
- medicines you are taking
- other illnesses you have
- information about any hospital stays.
Health professionals may also add information to your My Health Record. Health information from local electronic health records is not automatically recorded in My Health Record. You or your health professional can do this.
Ask your allergy specialist to add information about your visit or test results to My Health Record.
The National Allergy Council have information about how you can add allergy information to My Health Record.
The My Health Record website has information on how your health information is kept private and safe.
It is important to always have your allergy information up to date in My Health Record.
BUT… you should always tell a health professional about your allergy, even if the information is in your electronic health records.
Understanding allergy care
Learn about allergy care, seeing an allergy specialist, the Australian health system, treatment options and more.
Developed as part of the Shared Care for Allergy Project, in collaboration with the National Allergy Council through funding from the Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care.
