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BREAKING NEWS!
HACKERS TARGETING MEDICAL CENTRES
GP practices are being targeted by cyber-extortionists who use a computer virus that blocks access to patient records and then demand money to have the access restored ... read more
In particular those medical centres that enable remote access for staff are most at risk. It is critical that staff have strong passwords to protect the privacy of patient and clinical data. Passwords should be changed if necessary on both your Windows log-on as well as your clinical database.
A strong password is considered at least eight characters long containing both uppercase and lowercase letters and numbers, and if possible, special characters such as !@#$%.
Check out how secure is my password and the password meter to show you how secure your password really is and how long it would take a hacker to crack it.
DOCTOR FALLS VICTIM TO ONLINE SCAM
Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been scammed from a Currimundi radiologist by an international crime syndicate...read more
story by Patrick Williams - Sunshine Coast Daily, 30 September 2012
PERSONALLY CONTROLLED eHEALTH RECORD SYSTEM
The Australian Government has introduced a personally controlled eHealth record system (PCEHR)..read more
Healthcare organisations can now register to participate in the personally controlled electronic health (eHealth) record system.
Individual healthcare professionals do not need to register, as they will be authorised by their healthcare organisation to access and use the eHealth record system...read more
VIDEO CONSULTATION
RACGP releases updated implementation guidelines
The RACGP has released a practical, easy to interpret guide for GPs and their staff looking to establish video consulting within their practice.
- an updated summary of related MBS item numbers and telehealth incentives currently available
- information on engaging with specialists
- a list of software and hardware options for clinicians to consider
- a useful tool to assist GPs and their staff determine which video conferencing option is best for their practice
Who can provide telehealth services?
Medicare rebates for specialist consultations are available across the full range of medical specialties. Rebates for patient-end services are available for services provided by:
- Medical Practitioners
- Nurse Practitioners
- Midwives
- Practice Nurses and Aboriginal Health Workers providing services on behalf of a Medical Practitioner
Medicare rebates for specialist's video consultations
NEWS FROM MEDICAL DIRECTIONS
Facebook
Medical Directions now has it's own Facebook page and invites you to follow them.. read more
New Forum
Medical Directions has added a Forum to it's website.
You can 'talk' with others about any issues regarding Accreditation or other practice issues you may have.
It's a great way to bounce ideas around with each other and pick up some great tips. You just need to register for the Forum and start asking those questions!
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FEATURED PRODUCT OF THE MONTH
There are many software products on the market that can assist medical practices. Medical Directions will feature a product or service each month to let you know what is available.
HealthEngine is a new and innovative way to connect patients who want to see an available practitioner and practices with the capacity to see them.
Patients can find and book appointments at health practices across Australia. HealthEngine offers more times, more practices and more coverage.
To find out more phone 1300 377 639 or click here.
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PRACTICE TOP TIP FOR ACCREDITATION
Criterion 4.2.2 Information Security
Our practice ensures that our practice computers and servers comply with the RACGP computer security checklist and that:
- computers are only accessible via individual password access to those in the practice team who have appropriate levels of authorisation
- computers have screensavers or other automated privacy protection devices are enabled to prevent unauthorised access to computers
- servers are backed up and checked at frequent intervals, consistent with a documented business continuity plan
- back up information is stored in a secure off site environment
- computers are protected by antivirus software that is installed and updated regularly
- computers connected to the internet are protected by appropriate hardware/software firewalls
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ACCREDITATION NEWS
Accreditation Assistance Incentive Payment
- Is your practice due for accreditation with either AGPAL or GPA?
- Is your practice up to date with the RACGP Standards?
- Does your practice have the man power and time to reach accreditation?
- Are you and your staff stressed with the thought of accreditation?
- Like to know how to have all your online resources, document and practice information stored in one easily accessible secure location?
If you answered YES to all or some of the questions above then why not take advantage of the Accreditation Assistance Incentive Payment and have Medical Directions help your practice get Accreditation?
Practices who are not yet accredited can take up the Accreditation Assistance Incentive Payment offered by the Practice Nurse Incentive Program (PNIP).
To be eligible for the one-off $5,000 Accreditation Assistance Incentive Payment a practice must be registered for accreditation against the RACGP Standards for general practice 4th edition. Practice branches are not eligible for the $5,000 payment.
The practice must:
- Join the PNIP
- Provide Medicare Australia with proof of registration for accreditation on application; and
- Become accredited within 12 months of joining the PNIP
If a practice withdraws or payments cease from the PNIP and the practice subsequently reapplies for payment under the PNIP, the practice will not be entitled to another accreditation assistance payment.
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RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Never Fail 3 Minute Cupcakes
Great as an after school snack for the kids!
Ingredients
1 cup self-raising flour
½ cup castor sugar
120 grams butter - melted
½ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla essence
Method
Place all the ingredients in a bowl and mix for 3 minutes
Pour into patty pans
Bake at 180° for 15 minutes
Ice with your favourite coloured icing
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