My Health Record

About

My Health Record was developed by the NSW Chronic Care Program following broad consultation with stakeholders including general practitioners and consumers. It was initially designed for patients with chronic diseases such as cancer, respiratory and cardiovascular disease who need to attend many doctors and health service providers on a frequent basis. It is anticipated that in time, every consumer using NSW health services will carry a copy of this booklet.

My Health Record was launched in December 2002 and 140,000 copies have been distributed to date.

The purpose of My Health Record is to have a record of your health information in one place so that you and your health service providers can keep a record of your care and treatment. Its effectiveness lies in cooperation between you and your health services providers.

The advantages of using My Health Record:

• more accurate, up to date records and better coordination of care leading to improved health outcomes

• you and your carers will be more informed about your illness and what to expect from health services, and

• immediate access to your health information such as diagnostic test results, medication, allergies and emergency contact numbers.

The use of My Health Record is initiated by either yourself, your doctor or other health service providers and is entirely voluntary. From this point, the record belongs to you and it is your responsibility.

For more information, please contact the NSW Chronic Care Program by email on mhr@doh.health.nsw.gov.au or phone (02) 9391 9820 or (02) 9424 5806