Patients to Access Pathology and Imaging Results Faster Through My Health Record
08 Oct 2025
Some specialised tests, including anatomical pathology, cytopathology, and genetic testing, will continue to have a five-day delay before results are visible to patients.
In February 2026, changes will extend to diagnostic imaging:
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X-ray reports for limbs will be available immediately.
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Other imaging reports, including CT, MRI, PET, ultrasound, and chest/abdomen/pelvis x-rays, will move to a five-day delay instead of seven days.
It’s important to note that delays are based on test type, not the result itself, and a delay does not indicate an issue with the result.
For general practices, no system changes are required, as the timing is managed within My Health Record. However, patients may now see results at—or even before—their follow-up appointments, which could lead to more questions being raised sooner.
These reforms are part of the national Share by Default program, which aims to:
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Improve continuity of care
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Reduce duplication of tests
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Meet community expectations for faster, more transparent access to health information
Further information and printable resources for providers and consumers are available on the My Health Record website.
Source:
Australian Digital Health Agency – My Health Record
