When people hear about digital health records, one of the first questions is usually about privacy. Who can see my information? Do I have control?
The answer is yes ─ you are in control.
The 1800MEDICARE app is designed to give you choice. While health care providers involved in your care can usually view your record, you can decide what is shared, who can see it and how your information is used.
If there’s something in your record you don’t want others to see, you have options:
- You can hide a document so it’s no longer visible and bring it back later if you change your mind
- If you want something gone completely, you can remove it permanently from your record
- You can also restrict access to specific documents, choosing exactly which health care providers are able to view them
You’re able to control which health care organisations can access your record. By default, your record is set to general access, but you can change that at any time:
- You can limit access to specific providers or remove access entirely if needed
- If you want even more control, you can set a record access code—this means new health care providers won’t be able to view your record unless you give them permission directly
There’s also flexibility if you want someone to help manage your record. You can choose a nominated representative, such as a family member or carer, and decide what level of access they have. They may only be able to view information, or they may be able to help manage your record alongside you. And importantly, you can change or remove their access at any time.
Beyond day-to-day care, your data may also be used to help improve Australia’s health system, but only in a way that protects your privacy. Any data used for research or planning is de-identified, meaning it can’t be traced back to you. If you’d prefer not to be included, you can opt out whenever you like.
Importantly, anything you’ve removed always remains completely inaccessible, including in an emergency.
