Mackay GP claims first PCEHR upload
Dr Khan of Slade Point Surgery with patient Mr Ray BuntonThe first electronic (eHealth) patient shared health summary for Mackay has been uploaded to the Personally Controlled Electronic Health Record (PCEHR) by a GP at the Slade Point Surgery.
Until now, health records have usually been stored in different locations with little connection to each other or healthcare professionals and hospitals.
A Personally Controlled Electronic Health Record will allow patients to access a summary of their important health information online, and share that information with the healthcare professionals involved with their care, meaning patients no longer have to remember the detail of every medication, immunisation or treatment they have received.
“This is a fantastic milestone for the healthcare industry of Mackay,” said Julie Scheuber, CEO Townsville-Mackay Medicare Local.
“The implementation of this system is great for consumers as it means patients no longer have to remember their medical history or medications, instead it can all be easily accessed when required. It’s great to see the community beginning to realise these benefits,” she said.
Further PCEHR benefits include:
- Best treatment – as the system grows, healthcare organisations such as a GP practice or local hospital will be able to quickly view a summary of patient information, helping them to make the best possible decisions about their care.
- More convenient – patients will not have to remember every medication, test or health-related incident, or when a child was immunised.
- Less stressful – allows rapid access to information in an emergency.
- Better health – patients will be able to better manage their health.
- Sharing the load – if patients wish, they can share their health information with family members, carers, or other trusted people.
To register for a PCEHR:
- Online – www.ehealth.gov.au
- By phone – 1800 723 471 and select option 1
- In person – visit a Department of Human Services centre offering Medicare services
- In writing – complete a registration form application form
