Telemedicine Initiative Launches in Pharmacies

The Medios Pharmacy in Berlin has embarked on an innovative pilot project aimed at integrating telemedicine services within its premises. This initiative, supported by various partners, leverages technology to enhance patient care through virtual consultations.

The telemedicine service is provided by Arztkonsultation, a company that boasts over 1.9 million video consultations and more than 8,000 registered users. The connection to the telematics infrastructure, essential for secure data exchange, is facilitated by eHealth-Connect, which has also contributed to the development of electronic prescription solutions. The pharmacy utilizes a compact 'health box' from Medivise, which is adaptable for use in emergency departments to streamline patient management.

To utilize the telemedicine service at the pharmacy, patients must first insert their Electronic Health Card (EGK) and check in at the online practice. Their information is reviewed to determine if their case is suitable for telemedicine. If not, the pharmacy staff is prepared to refer patients directly to a local practice or emergency facility.

When a video consultation is appropriate, patients will enter a separate health box where they can connect with a doctor. This may involve a physician from the local area or a medical service center (MVZ) offering relevant services. The process resembles an open consultation in a community practice, and since patient data is pre-registered and organized, the consultation is typically more focused compared to in-person visits, according to a representative from Arztkonsultation.

Based on the consultation's outcome, the physician can directly upload an electronic prescription to the relevant service, allowing for immediate fulfillment at the pharmacy. During this process, pharmacists can assist patients as needed, ensuring a seamless experience.

The Medios Pharmacy operates 24 hours a day, addressing the need for medical consultations outside traditional office hours. This service is particularly crucial in rural areas facing a shortage of healthcare providers, where the demand for assisted telemedicine solutions is expected to rise significantly.