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Germany's Digital Healthcare Revolution: ePA Becomes Mandatory Today

Germany's digital healthcare revolution kicks off today with the mandatory ePA. While Berlin is ready, some practices struggle with access issues. Patients gain easier access to their health records.

There is a pharmacy store and there is a vehicle in front of it and there is a building in the left...
There is a pharmacy store and there is a vehicle in front of it and there is a building in the left corner.

Germany's Digital Healthcare Revolution: ePA Becomes Mandatory Today

Today marks a significant step in Germany's digital healthcare revolution as the electronic patient record (ePA) becomes mandatory for medical practices, hospitals, and pharmacies nationwide. The ePA aims to streamline document exchange between these facilities, benefiting around 70 million insured persons who have already received their ePA cards.

Berlin leads the way with nearly all its medical practices ready for the ePA's debut. However, around 5 percent of practices still need to install the necessary module. The ePA's rollout continues across Germany, with no federal state having fully transitioned yet. From October 1st, doctors must enter new diagnoses and findings into the e-record.

Patient consent is automatic upon inserting their insurance card at the reception, granting access rights for 90 days. Pharmacies are also fully prepared to utilise the ePA. Initial experiences among medical practices vary, with some expressing satisfaction while others encounter access issues and document upload errors.

The ePA's nationwide implementation is a substantial milestone in improving healthcare efficiency and patient care. Despite some teething problems, the system is expected to enhance interoperability between medical facilities and provide patients with easier access to their health records. As the rollout continues, healthcare providers and patients alike are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the ePA's features and benefits.

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