Why do we need IHI? 

IHI (Individual Healthcare Identifier) is like your personal ID number for the healthcare system in Australia. 

We need this number because: 

It helps clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies make sure they have the right person’s records, so your information doesn’t get mixed up with someone else’s. 

It’s used in digital health services like My Health Record and eScripts*. 

With IHI, doctors and pharmacists can quickly and safely access your health info. 

*What’s eScript?

An eScript is a digital version of a prescription, so you don’t need a paper one anymore. 

For example: 

After your doctor sees you, they’ll send your prescription to your phone – usually as a text message with a QR code. 

You just show that code at the pharmacy, and they’ll give you the medicine. 

It’s easy to use, harder to lose, and more convenient than paper.