Germany's Digital Health Revolution: Mandatory ePA Rollout Begins
Germany's digital health revolution is underway. As of October 1, 2023, doctors are legally required to use the electronic patient record (ePA) for their patient care. This national rollout, starting with statutory insured patients, aims to improve patient care and streamline the healthcare system. Currently, only five private health insurance companies offer ePA voluntarily, with wider integration planned for later phases.
The ePA, launched in January 2023, now covers around 70 million insured persons. It includes a list of medications and will soon add a medication plan with dosage information. Patients have control over their data, with the option to opt out or decide what information to include.
Over 93% of practices, dental practices, and pharmacies are equipped to use ePA. This includes approximately 61,600 medical practices, 20,900 dental practices, 10,700 pharmacies, and 777 hospitals. Data is stored securely on servers in Germany, with every access logged.
Health insurers anticipate that mandatory use will boost the ePA's practical benefits. In future expansion stages, pseudonymised data will be used for research, with the option for patients to object.
The ePA's rollout is a significant step towards modernising Germany's healthcare system. With widespread use now mandatory for doctors, the ePA will enhance patient care and support healthcare providers. As the system expands, it will also contribute to medical research, with patient consent at its core.
