Germany launches electronic patient files across three regions

People with statutory health insurance and living in Hamburg, Franconia or North Rhine-Westphalia can now access their patient files saved on an electronic database.

Germany begins pilot for electronic patient files

Starting January 15, Germany’s statutory health insurance system will trial the use of an electronic patient database in Hamburg, Franconia and North Rhine-Westphalia.

Currently, when you register with a new doctor in Germany or visit a specialist doctor, you are responsible for telling them about your prior and existing health conditions and treatment. The new pilot project means doctors can access this information formally via the database, with patients' permission.

Doctors will no longer have to rely on patients’ accounts of their medical history. Instead, they will be able to insert a patient's health insurance card into a reader during an appointment to access the electronic patient file (Elektronische Patientenakte or e-PA). Patients will also be able to access their own e-PA via the app of their health insurance provider.

Additionally, patients can block access to individual files and decide with their doctors that certain information never be uploaded to the electronic database. Anyone who wants their files to stay offline can opt out entirely.

Successful pilot means e-PA system will launch nationwide

According to an announcement from the Federal Health Ministry, should the pilot project be a success, the e-PA system will be rolled out nationwide four weeks after the end of the test period.

The ministry assured that no other parties apart from the patient and chosen doctors to whom they have authorised access will be able to see the logged information.

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