Challenges Ahead for Electronic Patient Records Implementation

The rollout of electronic patient records (EPR) in Germany is facing significant challenges, as the head of the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians (KBV) has expressed doubts about the feasibility of the current timeline set by the Federal Ministry of Health (BMG).

Currently, the testing phase for the EPR is underway in model regions including Hamburg, Franconia, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The initial plan was to evaluate the system for one month, with a nationwide launch scheduled for mid-February. However, due to serious security concerns, the rollout has been postponed to April. Yet, Andreas Gassen, the KBV chairman, believes this new deadline is also likely to be missed.

In a recent interview, Gassen highlighted that approximately half of the medical practices participating in the pilot project still lack the necessary software to implement the EPR. This delay appears to stem from ongoing issues faced by software developers.

Moreover, previously identified security vulnerabilities, which were disclosed by the Chaos Computer Club in December 2024, must be addressed before the system can be officially launched. Additionally, the Federal Commissioner for Data Protection must certify the security of the system. Gassen emphasized that a mandatory introduction of the EPR cannot occur until these issues are resolved.

In February, a KBV board member remarked in a video message that the start of the EPR has been fraught with difficulties and technical challenges. She indicated that a nationwide rollout in April seems implausible, echoing sentiments from regional health insurance associations that have also expressed skepticism about the BMG's schedule. They warned that hastily implementing the system could compromise software quality, data security, and public acceptance of the initiative.

As the situation unfolds, stakeholders continue to urge caution and thorough preparation before moving forward with the EPR's implementation across the country.