Frequently asked questions

Below are some frequently asked questions. If you have a question which does not appear here or elsewhere on the website, please fill in our feedback form.

Which browsers can I use to access Healthelink?

The Healthelink system currently only operates using Internet Explorer. We understand that people use other Web browsers and this will be addressed in the future.

What security features does Healthelink have?

We know that protecting the privacy and security of your health information is essential. There are several ways Healthelink looks after the security of your record:

• All users must be registered and need their own username and password
• Annual independent intrusion testing is carried out
• The website is certified by a commercial Certificate Authority
• Firewalls are in place to keep Healthelink safe from viruses and other unauthorised access
• Healthelink uses encrypted messaging which meet with international clinical messaging standards
• Healthelink utilises industry standard system architecture and software

For more technical detail on the security of the Healthelink system, please refer to section 3.2 of the Healthelink Privacy Policy.

Healthelink Privacy Policy (296K)

Who will have access to my health information?

Only selected health care providers working at participating health care facilities can access your record. The Healthelink privacy policy does not permit the use or disclosure of personal health information for any commercial purpose or to insurance companies, employers or any other group that might seek to use such information for financial gain.

What if someone enrolled in Healthelink is not capable of making a decision on their own?

Sometimes an adult individual who is enrolled in Healthelink may not be capable of making decisions about their health care. This does not mean that they can’t participate in Healthelink and receive the benefits that more information will give their health care providers.

In these situations, another person may get online access to the individual’s electronic health record, add information to their record or withdraw them from Healthelink.

To do this, the person must be an enduring guardian for the individual. An enduring guardian is someone who is legally recognised to make personal and lifestyle decisions for an individual who is not capable of doing so for themself.

Enduring guardianship is different to a (enduring) power of attorney. A power of attorney only relates to property and financial matters for another person. If you only have a power of attorney for an individual, this does not give you the legal authority to act on their behalf for Healthelink.

For more information about this visit the Department of Ageing, Disability & Home Care - Guardianship Tribunal website.

http://www.gt.nsw.gov.au/plan/enduring-guardianship.cfm

Or you can call the Service Centre on 1800 75 22 66 and we would be pleased to explain your options.