Identification at each interaction

We need to correctly identify you at each interaction. In accordance with RACGP accreditation standards, and in the interest of providing you with safe quality healthcare, our practice will ask you for 3 approved identifiers at each encounter. 

Three approved identifiers

The details we will routinely ask you for at each encounter are:

1. Name,
2. Date of birth and
3. Address.

No matter how well known you are to us, we are required to check these at every patient interaction. 

Three point identification is about safety and confidentiality

Verifying each patient’s identity helps to maintain patient safety and confidentiality. Failure to correctly identify a patient can have serious, potentially life-threatening consequences. Using three approved patient identifiers reduces the risk of misidentifying patients and ensures that practitioners have the correct patient health record for each interaction.

Alternatives to identifying yourself verbally

We understand and appreciate that some people may feel uncomfortable with giving personal information verbally when within the earshot of others. Acceptable alternatives to providing your 3 identifiers verbally include:

1. Presenting your driver's licence which shows your name, date of birth and address.
2. Writing the information down on a piece of paper for our team member to read.

We appreciate your help and understanding in correctly identifying you at each encounter, and with keeping your details up to date and accurate.