Introduction of the ePrescription
The electronic prescription, or ePrescription, changes the way prescriptions for medications are created, transmitted, and redeemed. From 2022, the ePrescription will be gradually introduced in Germany, increasingly replacing paper prescriptions. This digital format offers numerous advantages: it saves paper, simplifies communication between patients, doctors, health insurances, and pharmacies, and increases safety by reducing medication errors.
How the ePrescription Works
The ePrescription is created electronically by the doctor's office and stored in the telematics infrastructure. Patients receive a digital code, which is provided via an app on the smartphone or as a paper printout. In the pharmacy, the prescription can then be redeemed using this code, the electronic health card, or directly via the app.
Benefits of Using the ePrescription
The greatest advantage of the ePrescription lies in the time savings and convenience. Patients no longer need to wait at the doctor's office to receive a prescription, and pharmacies can provide medications faster as the information is digital and immediately available. Furthermore, safety is increased as all ePrescriptions are securely stored and encrypted in the telematics infrastructure. Additionally, the ePrescription allows better coordination and management of medications and repeat prescriptions, which is particularly relieving for chronically ill patients.
Data Protection and Security
The security of patient data is a top priority. All ePrescriptions are encrypted and can only be viewed by authorized persons. The telematics infrastructure, which acts as a secure data highway of the healthcare system, ensures that there is no unauthorized access to the data. Patients can be assured that their health information is protected and only they themselves, their doctors, and their chosen pharmacies have access to the ePrescriptions.
