The controversial My Health Record scheme has been forced to extend the opt out deadline for a third time, naming January 31 as the new date to make a decision by.
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The proposed national database has polarised the nation, with well over a million Australians already opting out before October, while the phone and website went into meltdown on Thursday as thousands more rushed to opt out at the last minute.
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The system has come under plenty of fire from both individuals and organisations who have questioned the security around such information, and its ability to be bought, sold and hacked.
Local GP Casey Sullivan can understand people’s concerns, although believes the system can be very effective if the government can “get it right.”
“I have been telling patients that if they can trust the system and it works correctly then it can be a benefit,” she said.
“If you are in a situation where you can’t advise doctors of medications or allergies than it can work really well.
“Patients can also edit anything they don’t want on their record – it just needs to be tried and tested.”
