My Health Record is a national system, that provides a secure online summary of an individual’s health information. Authorised healthcare professionals can both access and add information about their patients, such as shared health summaries, discharge summaries, prescription and dispense records, pathology reports and diagnostic imaging reports.

Important updates

My Health Record 2026 Rules

Healthcare provider organisations participating in My Health Record must operate in accordance with relevant legislation, including establishing and maintaining a security and access policy.

The My Health Records Rule 2016 (the 2016 Rule) has been replaced with the My Health Records Rules 2026 (the 2026 Rules), effective 1 April 2026. Under the 2026 Rules, revised security and access policy requirements are outlined in Rules 21 and 43. These Rules replace Rules 42 and 44 of the 2016 Rule.

While the core requirements remain largely consistent, several key changes have been introduced, including requirements concerning user account management, training and security measures, and a new requirement to include processes for responding to My Health Record data breaches. In addition to the policy itself, organisations must keep records showing how the policy has been applied. Retention periods for these records are outlined in Rule 45 of the 2026 Rules.

  • Organisations registered with the My Health Record system before 1 April 2026, must update their security and access policy by 1 October 2026, in line with the 2026 Rules.
  • Organisations registering for My Health Record from 1 April 2026, must develop a security and access policy in accordance with the 2026 Rules.

It is recommended that all organisations review the 2026 Rules to ensure their security and access policy complies with applicable requirements. Information to assist organisations in updating their policy in accordance with the new requirements can be found on the Australian Digital Health Agency’s website: My Health Record participation obligations.

Updated Australian Digital Health Agency resources:

The Agency’s My Health Record Security and Access Policy template is currently under review, and a fact sheet addressing legislative changes is expected in the coming weeks.

Share by Default (Better and Faster Access)

The Health Legislation Amendment (Modernising My Health Record – Sharing by Default) Act 2025 resulted in amendments to the My Health Records Act 2012 and the Health Insurance Act 1973 to establish a framework for key health information to be shared to My Health Record by default.

From 1 July 2026, pathology and imaging reports authored by (or on behalf of) a pathologist or radiologist must be uploaded to My Health Record by default, unless an exception applies or an extension of time has been granted. The requirement does not include images. These changes will help ensure patients and their healthcare providers can access key information through My Health Record to support care. Reports must be uploaded within 24 hours of being provided to the requesting provider, another treating provider, or the patient.

To find out more and access healthcare provider resources and training, visit the Australian Digital Health Agency’s: Better access to health information.

1800MEDICARE app

On 1 January 2026, the my health app was renamed 1800MEDICARE. The app is a secure and convenient way to view key health information that has been uploaded to My Health Record via a mobile phone or tablet. It also gives the consumer access to electronic prescriptions and Active Script List along with other features like finding and booking a health service, and much more.

The app now allows users to manage and change privacy and access settings, which will also be reflected in My Health Record. Over time, new features including in-app notifications for preventative screening and reports on your tests and scans will be added.

Additional background

My Health Record can provide immediate access to key health information, that has proven important in times of emergency. It can validate clinical information, help avoid adverse medication events and duplication of tests. It can also help to improve continuity of care and inform end-of-life care.

Whether you work as an allied health practitioner, pharmacist, doctor, nurse or specialist, My Health Record can provide you with better access to healthcare information to support you in caring for your patients. To learn more about My Health Record visit the digitalheath.gov.au website or access more information and resources below.

Training and resources

The Australian Digital Health Agency also offers online education for a range of healthcare professions including community health, pharmacy, emergency department, general practice and nursing staff. 

How we can help

Murray PHN’s digital health team has resources to assist healthcare providers connect to the My Health Record system and can help with education and training to use the system effectively. Email digitalhealth@murrayphn.org.au for support.

Last Update: July 21st, 2026