Family Doctors Raise Concerns Over Implementation of Electronic Patient Records

The introduction of electronic patient records (ePA) in Germany has drawn criticism from general practitioners who argue that the system's technical rollout is insufficiently prepared. Health facilities are now required to upload essential data such as medical findings and laboratory results to digital records, a move intended to improve continuity of care and patient outcomes.

Since the mandated use of electronic patient files began on October 1, healthcare providers have faced numerous technical difficulties. According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians, approximately 75 percent of general practices have reported system malfunctions and operational issues in recent months. These technical challenges are causing frustration among healthcare professionals and have undermined trust in the digitalization process within the sector.

Digital health records are designed to serve patients throughout their lifetimes by centralizing health data, enabling more informed treatment decisions, and reducing the risk of redundant or conflicting therapies. However, doctors report that the current system is not fully functional and lacks the reliability required for routine clinical use. The technical infrastructure, managed by statutory health insurers, industry partners, and the national digital health agency Gematik, is perceived as insufficiently robust for widespread adoption.

There have also been concerns regarding data accuracy in electronic records. While some critics have suggested that the ePA could contain a significant number of inaccurate or outdated diagnoses, representatives of general practitioners emphasize that such cases are isolated. They point out that with over 500 million patient interactions annually, occasional errors in data entry or outdated information are statistically unavoidable, but do not constitute a widespread problem. Enhanced transparency through digital records is viewed as a positive development in addressing such issues.

General practitioners are calling for further enhancements to both the technical platform and the workflow integration of the ePA within primary care settings. They advocate for a more user-friendly approach that reduces administrative burden and supports efficient care delivery. Additionally, there is growing support for a system that prioritizes access to specialist appointments for patients who first seek care from their family doctor. Proponents suggest that this could incentivize the use of primary care as a first point of contact, streamlining patient pathways and improving overall health system efficiency.

The government is being urged to accelerate the implementation of these improvements, particularly in light of the growing demands on the healthcare system and the increasing importance of digital solutions. Policymakers are expected to work closely with healthcare professionals and industry partners to ensure that the electronic patient record system is reliable, secure, and fit for purpose, ultimately supporting better patient outcomes and a more resilient healthcare infrastructure.