In 2021, Albertans will be able to view more lab test results in MyHealth Records (MHR), the single access point for Albertans’ personal health information. These lab results will be viewable through the My Personal Records (MPR) application. This change is being made to provide Albertans with more access to their health information, and as an additional safety net for patient/client care within the system. These results will be viewable as soon as they are released by the lab:
- About 95 per cent of the most common (by volume) lab test results will be viewable by Feb 1, 2021.
- All remaining lab tests, including more complex results in microbiology, pathology and genetics, will be available in MPR by July 1, 2021.
Healthcare providers, including pharmacists, will continue to have access to results through their usual channels, including Alberta Netcare. After the changes, Albertans will have immediate access to more of their own information, so an individual may see their results before the ordering provider.
As per the Standards for Point of Care Testing, a pharmacist who interprets a laboratory test or conducts a POCT must
- advise the patient if the test is meant for diagnostic or screening purposes,
- advise the patient of the results, and
- take appropriate action based on the results of the test.
Pharmacists ordering tests are encouraged to ask their patients whether they have a MyHealth Records account. If so, pharmacists should advise them that they can see their lab test results online. If not, Alberta Health encourages pharmacists to recommend their patients register for an account.
A MyHealth Records account provides individuals with a secure, online location to gather, store, and manage their personal health information, which they can share with their care providers. Evidence shows that individuals having electronic access to health information can yield benefits for the entire circle of care. Interactions between individuals and their healthcare providers improve as individuals can prepare for provider visits and have a better understanding of the impacts of treatments and preventive care.
For more information about lab results online, please visit FAQ: MyHealth Records: Lab Results Online via My Personal Records.
