Albanese Government Seeks to Modernise My Health Record, Improve Health Data Accessibility

Digital health reform could save over $5 billion annually.

Australian Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler speaks at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on July 28, 2022 . Martin Ollman/Getty Images

The Albanese government has introduced a bill aimed at modernising My Health Record and improving the accessibility of health data for Australians.

The bill, in line with the Strengthening Medicare Task Force’s recommendations, mandates that all diagnostic imaging and pathology reports be automatically uploaded to My Health Record, addressing the issue of incomplete information sharing.

Health Minister Mark Butler highlighted that previously only 20 percent of reports were shared, leading to delays and increased patient costs.

The reform aims to improve patient engagement, reduce waiting times, and streamline communication between healthcare professionals. The debate on the bill was adjourned for a later day.

As per the department, these measures may result in an increase in average regulatory costs of $10.9 million (US$7.1 million) in the first year. Costs for ongoing years will be determined following evaluation and monitoring of mandate outcomes.

Healthcare providers can access My Health Record by searching with personal details like name, date of birth, and Medicare number. However, individuals can maintain control over who can access their records and what information is uploaded.

Medicare’s 40th: Empowering Patients

Butler said as Medicare turns 40 this year, it was time to modernise the system.

“Every minute a GP doesn’t spend searching through My Health Record for a result that may or may not be stuffed into ’the PDF shoebox,' is a minute they can spend with a patient,” he said told Parliament on Nov. 21.

The Productivity Commission estimates that reforming digital health infrastructure could save over $5 billion annually, bringing both cost savings and improved health outcomes.

Butler added that the bill is designed to empower patients by ensuring easy access to their health records, allowing for more informed decisions.

By reducing duplication and ensuring the sharing of key health information whenever Medicare rebates are claimed, the government seeks to create a more connected and efficient healthcare system.

Butler said patients would retain control over what information is shared. Patients can opt out of certain records or choose not to upload them, with safeguards in place to protect their interests.

To facilitate the transition, the government has allocated resources to help healthcare providers meet the new requirements.

Providers unable to comply immediately will be granted an extension, but penalties will apply if compliance is not achieved after the extension.

Pathology Reports and My Health Record: Growing Opposition

Earlier, the Albanese government had proposed to remove the seven-day delay timeline for uploading pathology and diagnostic imaging reports.

However, the move was vehemently opposed by key medical bodies, including the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (GCPA), and the Australian Medical Association (AMA).

These organisations warned that immediate access to results could lead to patient confusion, especially without proper healthcare context, causing unnecessary stress.

The rule was amended and included only a small number of tests, including pathology results for COVID-19 and 13 other respiratory pathogens.

“Timely access to diagnostic imaging and pathology reports empowers consumers to better manage their own health and protect others in the community. It also helps them have informed discussions and make decisions with healthcare providers,” said the consultation paper submitted by these bodies.