Patients/clients have a right to be given access to the information held about them by a health facility. They are also able to give consent to an authorised representative or a third party to access their personal health information on their behalf.

Most applications are processed under the Health Records and Information Act 2002 (HRIP Act). However, the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act) may be used in exceptional circumstances.

Sydney Local Health District has procedures in place for access to health information under the HRIP Act. Patients/clients must be aware of the following information:

• Applications must be made in writing, preferably on the District’s Application to access personal health information form
• Appropriate identification of the patient/client (and applicant, if applicable) must be provided
• Additional consent and documents of proof of relationship may be required
• A fee, in accordance with the NSW Policy Directive Health Records and Medical/Clinical Reports Charging Policy (PD2006_050), will be charged

Where access is granted, it can be provided in the following manner:

• A copy of the health record in electronic or paper form
• Direct access by viewing the health record on the health service's premises under the supervision of a health care professional or health information manager. Any electronic information will be printed. Please note, bookings are essential
• Access by viewing a copy of the health record in the presence of an external health practitioner agreed upon by the patient/client and the health service

Access to your personal information may be declined in special circumstances, such as where giving access would cause you or another person risk of harm.

My Health Record

If you wish to access the information contained in your My Health Record, you can access your record online using your MyGov account. For more information visit the My Health Record website.

Amending Personal Health Information

To assist Sydney Local Health District to maintain accurate health records, we request you advise your health care provider, relevant administrative staff or the relevant facility Clinical Information Department/Medical Records Department of any changes to your demographic information, such as a change of name, address, contact details or GP's details.

If you think your health information held by the District is incorrect, you can request to correct it. You will need to let your health care provider or the relevant facility Clinical Information Department/Medical Records Department know in writing and attach any evidence supporting your claim. You will be informed of the outcome which may include correction of the error or addition of a notation to your health record.

Applications

• Application to Access Personal Health Information – under the Health Records and Privacy Act 2002 (HRIP Act)
• GIPA Access Application – under the Government Information (Public Access Act) 2009 (GIPA Act)

Privacy

Visit Patient Information Privacy for more information about the District’s privacy obligations and how we protect your personal health information.

Enquiries

For further information about how to access or request amendments to your personal health information, contact the Clinical Information Department/Medical Record Department at the respective facility or via the relevant Community Health Information Manager.