HCN advises all the Medical Director 2 users should upgrade to Medical Director 3 before 1 November 2011. The October MD Ref (database of medications) will be the last for Medical Director 2 users.

Malware (any software that harms your computer) needs to be taken seriously by all Internet users, especially if using “always on” broadband connection. Criterion 4.2.2 – Information Security of RACGP Standards mandates antivirus software and firewall in your practice to prevent malware infection.

The RACGP standards (4th ed) place increased emphasis on minimum data in the patient’s electronic record. The Patient Summaries criterion states that GPs must maintain a GP Health Summary for more than 75% of their active patients.

The PBS “Closing the Gap” co-payment measure has been developed to provide assistance to eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients to improve access to PBS medicines through co-payment relief.

Medical Director 3.12 includes new enhancements to the recall system.

Having recently visited a number of practices participating in Australian Primary Care Collaboratives I was repeatedly asked about how to manage diabetes cycle of care using their clinical software.

Electronic investigations are convenient with majority of our computerised GPs now receiving pathology results electronically.  With exception of area health service hospitals electronic pathology is available from vast majority of providers.

The unprecedented flood damage in QLD and the earthquake in NZ - in current news emphasises the importance of business continuity planning.