The Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations (AFAO) joins others today in expressing concern about the end of the My Health Record opt out period.

The opt out period closes tomorrow, before further issues relating to privacy and confidentiality are considered by parliament.

Community members are sensitive about the possibility of disclosure of personal information, including HIV, hepatitis B or hepatitis C status, along with gender identity, sexual orientation, sexual health or history of illicit drug use. AFAO has recommended amendments to the My Health Record legislation, including judicial oversight of the disclosure of records, along with giving individuals a right to permanently destroy their My Health Record as ways to address these concerns. AFAO welcomes changes agreed last week which include increased penalties for misuse of records and tighter protections around sharing of records. AFAO believes My Health Record brings enormous potential benefit. Extending the opt out period would give more time for education about My Health Record, including legislative amendments once passed, and improve public confidence in these benefits.

For media comment, please contact: Nick Lucchinelli 0422 229 032

YOU CAN DOWNLOAD THE PDF OF THIS MEDIA RELEASE HERE:  My Health Record opt out period