Uncertainty Surrounds Electronic Patient Record Rollout in Germany

Thu 3rd Apr, 2025
The implementation of electronic patient records (EPA) in Germany has been delayed, with over 70 million records already created but no definitive timeline for a nationwide rollout. Originally scheduled for mid-February, the launch was postponed following security breaches identified by IT experts from the Chaos Computer Club, raising significant concerns about data safety. As a result, the pilot phase, which was set to be tested in 300 practices, pharmacies, and hospitals, has been extended. Despite the commencement of the second quarter of 2025, the German Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) has not provided a clear schedule for the national rollout. A spokesperson indicated that the ministry is currently evaluating the pilot phase results, and a rollout plan will be revealed afterward. Reports from the Kassenzahnärztliche Bundesvereinigung (KZBV) suggest that many test practices only began using the EPA in March, limiting the data and experience gathered thus far. The KZBV has urged the BMG to delay the nationwide mandate for the EPA until more data can be collected. Other medical representatives have also voiced concerns, advocating for a postponement of the launch. Karl-Georg Pochhammer, vice chairman of the KZBV, stated that it remains premature for a nationwide rollout. He emphasized the need for continued testing in model regions and for the Federal Office for Information Security to confirm the EPA's safety before expanding beyond these regions. He stressed that additional voluntary testing should occur, allowing sufficient time to strengthen the technology within all practice management systems. The Bundesverband Gesundheits-IT (bvitg) highlighted ongoing challenges, despite receiving positive feedback from test regions regarding the basic functions of the EPA. However, there are still significant structural issues, particularly concerning the central EPA infrastructure. The accessibility and robustness of the systems remain problematic, especially considering the anticipated increased load following a national rollout. Both healthcare providers and patients exhibit considerable uncertainty regarding the EPA. Many practices are unclear about the types of data required to be stored in the system and the associated liability regulations. Furthermore, patients have numerous inquiries that demand substantial time from healthcare providers. The bvitg advocates for improved communication and information dissemination by health insurance companies to address these concerns. As discussions continue about the future of the EPA in Germany, the urgency for comprehensive solutions to these challenges is becoming increasingly apparent. The focus remains on ensuring a robust, secure, and user-friendly electronic health record system that meets the needs of healthcare professionals and patients alike.

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