Penicillin allergy and My Health Record

Your drug (medication) allergy information in My Health Record should be kept up to date to ensure all your healthcare providers are informed and provide you with the best treatment possible.

In an emergency situation, or unexpected hospital visit, it is important for doctors to know if you are allergic to penicillin. This information needs to be easy for your health professionals to find.

If testing shows that you are allergic to penicillin and this is recorded in your My Health Record, doctors, pharmacists and hospitals can avoid giving you penicillin and prevent an allergic reaction from occurring.

If testing shows you are not allergic to penicillin, updating your My Health Record lets your health professionals know that you can safely have penicillin. This ensures you get the most appropriate antibiotic when needed.

Your My Health Record is accessible to many health professionals, including your GP, specialists and allied health professionals. Ensuring they have your most accurate and up to date allergy information means fewer medication errors, safer treatment in emergencies, and guidance for your health professionals, so they can make the best decisions for your care.

For more information about My Health Record and how to access and upload your allergy information, visit My Health Record (people with an allergy and their carers) - National Allergy Council.