Mercy Health (Heidelberg and Werribee sites) currently has an automated process to upload Discharge Summaries, Pathology and Imaging results to the national My Health Record (MHR) for patients who have not withdrawn their authority to have their information shared and where a MHR exists.
From 15 November 2023, Mercy Health will also commence uploading dictated Specialist Clinic letters to MHR.
Access to health information contained in the MHR can help reduce the instance of adverse medication events (including hospital re-admissions), decrease duplicate diagnostic testing and improve continuity of care for patients across the primary and secondary care sectors.
Mercy Health has adopted an implied consent model for each episode of care (inpatient or outpatient), whereby the patient has the option to “opt out” and withdraws authority to share information for a specific episode of care. Any patients wishing to opt out are offered the MHR Your health record in your hands’ pamphlet (a publication from the Australian Digital Health Agency available on wards and in clinic areas) or directed to the MHR website.
Further information for patients and carer is available on the Mercy Health website at: https://health-services.mercyhealth.com.au/patients-and-visitors/my-health-record/
It is relevant for GPs to understand how they can access and find clinical documentation on the MHR. The Education team at the Australian Digital Health Agency provides information on their website and conducts regular webinars
Last reviewed November 21, 2023.