Fed:Abbott: Smart card would assist in medical emergency

AAP General News (Australia)
04-26-2006
Fed:Abbott: Smart card would assist in medical emergency

The health minister says a smart card for health services would provide basic medical
information to help in an emergency.

TONY ABBOTT's told the Nine Network .. the card would not contain people's entire medical
history .. just basic details such as blood type .. allergies and recent medical history.

He says while no final decisions have been made .. a smart card could mean that if
you're in trouble a doctor .. ambulance officer .. or hospital emergency department ..

would be able to access basic health information about you.

He says people should not be afraid of the card as it would provide better value for
taxpayer dollars.

Federal cabinet is today considering a smart card which would cover Medicare and welfare
payments.

AAP RTV klw/jv/

KEYWORD: SMARTCARD ABBOTT (CANBERRA)

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