The most used tool is the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR), with 84% of GPs claiming to use it always or often, in their practice settings (Figure 52). This is followed by the use of electronic prescriptions and real-time prescription monitoring, where respectively, 83% and 66% of GPs are using it always or often.
My Health Record appears to be underutilised, with only 33% of GPs using it always or often. Notably, 31% of GPs rarely, or never use My Health Record. This indicates there may be barriers or operability issues for GPs when using My Health Record, as evidence demonstrates that one in two patients are using My Health Record and 80% report they are satisfied with the security of personal health records.6
Although MyMedicare is a recent introduction to the healthcare system, GP adoption of MyMedicare seems to be in its early stages, with 59% of GPs rarely or never using it. Evidence in the sector shows there are mixed views on the benefit of MyMedicare and practice readiness, as just over one in four (28%) believe it is good for general practice. Forty-two per cent of practices are aiming to engage with MyMedicare in the next 12 months.10
There is a large discrepancy in the use of telehealth via video, and telehealth via phone. Usage of telehealth via phone is far more common, with 70% of GPs always or often using it, versus only 16% of GPs always or often using telehealth via video.
Along with very low levels of familiarity with AI tools, the implementation of AI tools within a practice setting is not common, with 83% of GPs never or rarely using AI. Familiarity rates of specific-AI tools within general practice is discussed in the ‘Artificial intelligence’ section.