Germany Mandates Electronic Patient Records from October 1, 2023
From October 1, 2023, German doctors are required to use electronic patient records (ePRs) for their patients. This move aims to improve healthcare efficiency and patient care. Around 70 million insured individuals have already received an ePR since January 2023, with approximately 61,600 medical practices already participating.
ePRs will initially include a list of medications and medication plans. Data will be stored securely on German servers, with each access logged. Patients can view their ePR and control data access via an app provided by their insurance provider. They can also object to data use for research at their insurance provider's ombudsman's office or directly in the app.
Insurance providers expect practical benefits from ePRs, with data from e-prescriptions included. Around 93% of practices are equipped with ePR software modules. In a later stage, pseudonymised data will be used for research purposes. Private insurance providers like Allianz, Axa, and Gothaer are set to offer ePRs voluntarily, with more expected to follow.
The mandatory use of ePRs in German practices begins on October 1, 2023. This shift promises improved patient care and healthcare system efficiency. Patients have control over their data and can object to its use for research. Insurance providers and practices are well-prepared, with most equipped with necessary software. The integration of e-prescription data and future research use of pseudonymised data are also planned.
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