PSR to be given new powers to access doctors’ records
And GPs could also face fines for failing to provide evidence at PSR hearings, under legislation before federal Parliament
Doctors will face fines for failing to hand over their patient records to the Professional Services Review, even if they are not under review themselves, under looming changes to the watchdog’s powers to investigate GP corporates.
The legal changes are expected to pass the federal Parliament later this year.
Along with the powers to demand medical records, the Professional Services Review (PSR) will also be able to compel doctors to give evidence to its investigators, with penalties of up to $6600 or possible Medicare disqualification for those who refuse.
Corporates who fail to front the PSR when asked could be fined up to $26,500.
