Better broadband access for GPs and their patients

Dr Haikerwal said the improved technology also brings with it unresolved security concerns, which must be addressed.

"While Government advises that the broadband provider will deliver significant elements of security, we still have some concerns," Dr Haikerwal said.

"The use of broadband imposes additional responsibility on the profession to manage potentially serious risks to the security of practice data.

"Individual practices must ensure that they comply with security requirements that represent very basic and simple practice management measures.

"These include maintaining a firewall, managing virus protection, establishing appropriate security procedures, and encryption of sensitive clinical information," Dr Haikerwal said. 

At present, the best guide on basic IT security requirements for general practice can be sourced from the General Practice Computing Group (GPCG).  GPCG's website is www.gpcg.org

Dr Haikerwal said better access to broadband technology would allow more GPs to take advantage of ongoing on-line professional development and other innovations such as teleconsulting and accessing relevant and timely information.

"We anticipate this will have a significant impact on the further development of a national electronic health record and the greater use of electronic systems for exchange of information and Medicare billing through HIC Online," Dr Haikerwal said.

"But there needs to be proper technical support for doctors, and medical input into these processes.

"Past experience has shown that it is not enough to simply deliver the 'tool'.  Broadband access will only be fully effective with the back-up of support services," Dr Haikerwal said.

Dr Haikerwal said the Government must now provide better broadband access to other medical specialists.