Digital health record gets shake-up

Few Australians are signing up to have their health records stored digitally.

So the federal government wants to conduct trials to boost recruits - by only allowing people to opt out.

Individuals will automatically have an account created for them unless they object.

If trials are successful, the government will consider rolling out automatic accounts nationally.

The changes respond to concerns that the low uptake is discouraging healthcare providers from using the system.

Only one in 10 Australians has an account set up.

The measures are contained in legislation introduced to parliament on Thursday intended to make the system more effective and viable.

Besides the trials, the system will get a shake-up with a new name - My Health Record - and harsher penalties for those who misuse the data.

People who intentionally breach someone's private medical records could be slapped with civil or even criminal penalties.

WHAT IS AN EHEALTH RECORD?

An electronic summary of a person's health records to which they have access.

WHY WAS IT CREATED?

To make sure information is consolidated in one place. Not having quick access to medical records could pose health risks to patients. It also reduces the cost and time of finding information.

HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE SIGNED UP?

About 2.1 million people and 7600 healthcare providers.