ACRRM is working closely with the Australian Digital Health Agency (the Agency) and other stakeholders to keep rural communities connected with the improved integration of digital health. The Communities of Excellence Program connects healthcare providers to the national My Health Record system, along with secure messaging and telehealth for patients. 

One of the communities taking part in the initiative is ACRRM President Dr Ewen McPhee’s hometown of Emerald in Queensland – where the population size, local clinical and digital leadership and community support, makes it an ideal location for this initiative. Dr McPhee is a strong advocate of the program and a valued participant.

A key focus of the Communities of Excellence Program is connecting healthcare providers to the national My Health Record system and helping consumers make the best use of it, including understanding the control they have over the security and privacy of their information. The project will develop local clinical case studies that demonstrate how My Health Record delivers the most value to the communities, including supporting telehealth consultations, supporting transition of care, or providing timely and accurate information for local care providers for non-residents.

Read more about the Communities of Excellence Program here.