Information Access Unit (IAU) Manager Kathryn Cumner with the Fraser Coast team
Protecting patient information is something everyone who works in healthcare plays a part in; from securing physical records to using systems appropriately.
But at the centre of clinical information release is the Information Access Unit (IAU) which has one clear message – reach out to its team for release of information advice.
Why? Because every record matters. Every detail counts. And every patient deserves to know their information is handled with care, respect and integrity.
The IAU is made up of five administration officers who work diligently behind the scenes across the Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service (WBHHS) managing an enormous volume of clinical records. From paper copies to digital files, these details tell the story of a patient’s health journey and protecting them is critical.
The team plays a vital role ensuring records are matched to the right patient, and physical and digital files are kept secure, with no identifiable information left unattended.
Requests are managed from a wide range of applicants, including:
- Patients themselves
- Care and treatment providers
- Legal representatives
- Insurance agencies
- Police applications
- Right to Information (RTI) applications
Information Access Unit Manager Kathryn Cumner said her team operates with a pro-disclosure bias, sharing information where possible in response to a formal application within the boundaries of the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 and Right to Information Act 2009.
Patient wellbeing always comes first and there are strict guidelines the IAU must follow when asked to release patient information.
In all cases, the principle remains the same. Is this the right person, asking for the right information, for the right reason?
“Looking after our patients is a priority so when a request for information is received, we ensure it’s for a genuine compliant reason,” Kathryn said.
“Our team is here to help, and we want people to know we should always be your first point of contact.
“We have a brilliant team who reliably check patient record details, manage requests securely, and help staff stay compliant.
“Although we’re a small team we’re quick to respond and want to ensure our patients are afforded the ability to manage their own health journey.”
For information on how to access your health record visit the WBHHS website.
Photo: Information Access Unit (IAU) Manager Kathryn Cumner with the Bundaberg team.