Addendum

Abstract

Since writing this article I have read further comments published in the March 1989 issue of the Journal regarding FAX machines. In correspondence Irene Kearsey refers to the issue of the permanency of FAX copies. Given the rather uncertain nature of the permanency of the FAX record it is clear that such records cannot take the place of more permanent forms ofrecord keeping. At best FAX copies can only be regarded as a quick and convenient means of transmitting information which is not intended to replace the original material which will be retained in a more permanent form.

The second point raised in the letter is the advice of Health Department Victoria that the use of FAX machines for transmitting medical or health information should be avoided “as access to the documents at the receiving machine cannot be controlled”. To date this issue has not been addressed by the NSW Department of Health and I would be interested to hear if readers in other states know of any policy decisions made by the Health Departments of those other states.