Health workers risk massive fines if they illegally access soon-to-be created electronic health records, under proposed federal government legislation.
Health Minister Nicola Roxon on Friday outlined the draft laws, which show there would be fines of $13,200 for individuals and $66,000 for companies which unnecessarily accessed the record of any patient.
"Electronic health records have the potential to save lives, time and money and make the health system more efficient," Ms Roxon said in a statement.
"Using a combination of legislation, security and technology, backed by strict penalties for infringements, we will give patients peace of mind that their sensitive medical information is safe and secure."
The government wants to also include routine monitoring of the record database along with easy patient access.
Patients will be able to set privacy settings on their information.
"Doctors, or other health professionals, will be the only people allowed to create medical notes on the file," MS Roxon said.
"Patients can add their own notes about their general health but cannot make medical notes."
The government wants the legislation before the parliament by the end of the year.
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