Ray & Lorraine Gardner

Ray & Lorraine Gardner, North Richmond

A decade of travelling vast distances and rugged terrain both in Australia and overseas has taught Ray & Lorraine Gardner to be prepared. Before setting off, their motorhome is checked for mechanical issues, food and water supplies are stocked, their phones are charged and their My Health Record information is up to date. 

The retired couple from North Richmond signed up for the Personally Controlled Electronic Health Record (PCEHR) as it was then known in 2012. Since then, they have shared the record with their local GP, Dr Michael Crampton, so he can add health information that can assist GPs or healthcare professionals in other states. 

Now known as the My Health Record, the online health information is on the top of their travel preparations checklist. With a myriad of chronic health conditions between them ranging from diabetes to melanoma, a back fusion, a nerve operation and a penicillin allergy, they know that their health records are the key to other healthcare professionals being able to treat them effectively when they’re away from home.  Their My Health Record is almost as valuable as taking their long-time trusted GP on holidays with them!

"Dr Crampton is a fabulous GP but we can’t take him with us. My Health Record means he is never far away,” says Ray. 

From as far away as Fremantle when a rash broke out, to Sale where Lorraine needed intravenous antibiotics to Albany where blood tests were required, the online health information summary means information can be viewed securely online, anywhere, anytime.

“You don’t need to worry about having to remember and repeat your health history like medicines, details of conditions and so on when you go to other doctors,” Lorraine says.  

“Our health history travels with us. It gives us peace of mind so we can get on with enjoying the journey."