Online tools to help better manage health in the New England

01 Feb 2018

New England residents are being encouraged to take advantage of new online tools designed to enhance individual health records as well as help senior Australians maintain their independence and improve overall health.

 

Deputy Prime Minister and Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, is encouraging residents who are aged 65 and over, or on their carer’s behalf, to take an online, five-question frailty test to improve their well-being.

 

He said the test and subsequent follow-up with a GP could help seniors lead longer, better lives and remain living in their own homes for as long possible.
 

“The FRAIL test is called the ‘canary in the coal mine’ of ageing, revealing whether people are more at risk of frailty which can lead to things like deteriorating health and greater susceptibility to falls,” Mr Joyce said.

 

“The good news is that there are simple interventions that can help avoid and even reverse frailty, so the sooner people heed the warning signs, the better.”

 

Meanwhile all residents in the New England can now also register for the online My Health Record, which offers patients greater control over their personal health information as well as real-time access for health professionals around Australia.

 

“It’s especially useful for retirees and ‘grey nomads’ who travel from the New England around our great nation,” Mr Joyce said.

 

“Being registered on My Health Record gives peace of mind, that no matter where you are, health professionals can quickly access this vital information at the point of care.”

 

My Health Record presents information from across the health system, through a GP uploading a shared health summary record, Medicare data, public and private pathology and radiology reports and hospital discharge summaries.

 

Individuals can control what information is in their My Health Record, and which health care provider organisations can access the information, with an extensive range of privacy settings.

 

For My Health Record information and to register, go to: myhealthrecord.gov.au

 

The FRAIL test is available through the Positive Ageing Resource Centre website parc.net.au and complements online supports available on the My Aged Care website: myagedcare.gov.au

 

(ENDS)

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