How to request information
Requesting information
The Client Liaison Unit (CLU) is the entry point for all requests for statistical information. Requests must be received by email, facsimile or letter, and are subject to a clarification and approval process.
Each request is assessed on an individual basis to determine if:
- Medicare Australia holds the information
- the information is available on Medicare Australia’s statistical website
- the request is in line with Medicare Australia’s strategic direction of improving Australia ’s health
- will it support health professionals in their clinical practice
- will it support health care consumers to make more informed choices about their health care
- will it support stakeholders in the health industry to develop and monitor initiatives aimed at improving Australia ’s health
- will it support partnerships within the health sector
- will it support initiatives aimed at increasing the knowledge base of Australia ’s health sector, and sharing that knowledge within relevant parts of the sector
- Privacy clearance is necessary
- the request requires further clarification.
If the request is approved it is allocated to a technical team for processing. If the request is denied, the client is notified and an explanation given as to why the request was not approved. Clients may redefine the requirements of the data request to conform to the above criteria.
Information extraction process
Information retrieval can be a lengthy process that requires extensive knowledge of how the data is stored on Medicare Australia files. If delays are likely the client will be contacted by the CLU.
Information interpretation
To meet the client’s information needs, it is often beneficial that both client and technical officer liaise to ensure a shared understanding of the information request. It is important that the requestor is explicit when defining the requested information. The CLU can be consulted for advice or more detailed technical advice can be provided by the officer who will extract the required information.
Report delivery
The CLU processes about 16 000 requests each year, ranging from very complex to simple information extractions. Medicare Australia technical teams work on complex research projects that can take several months of programming. Sufficient time for privacy clearance must also be given. Delivery dates are mutually negotiated between the client and Medicare Australia prior to commencing the extraction. Reports can be provided either in hard copy or email and can be formatted in ASCII (text) file or Excel. Data can also be downloaded onto a disc.
Charges
Medicare Australia may charge for the delivery of information to recover costs. The client will be provided with a quote which requires acceptance in writing prior to commencing information extraction.
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Last updated: 28 May, 2008