Michael Higgins dreaded being struck down by a serious illness, so he was happy to be on the national $1.7 billion My Health Record system.

The 67-year-old's worst fears were realised when he was diagnosed with terminal cancer that had spread from his bowel to his liver last year.

Michael Higgins, who has been diagnosed with bowel cancer, with his dog Alex. Credit:Simon Schluter

The retired teacher logged into his digital health records to try to comprehend his grim diagnosis.

He was shocked to discover his medical records had not been updated, despite the scheme being rolled out almost a year ago.