Medisign and D-Trust Provide Updates on Replacement Cards for Pharmacies

To connect to the Telematics Infrastructure (TI), pharmacies require an electronic health professional card (eHBA) and an institution card (SMC-B). However, the certificates for these cards have an expiry date, making it essential for pharmacies to monitor their validity closely.

According to the Digital Healthcare Act (DVG), which came into force on December 19, 2019, pharmacies were mandated to connect to the TI by September 30, 2020. This connection requires a connector to link to the data network, along with the identification tools, eHBA and SMC-B. The certificates for these cards are valid for a maximum of five years, necessitating a review of their expiration dates and potential replacement.

In light of this, Medisign announced that it is currently preparing for a mass exchange of eHBAs and SMC-B cards of generation G2.0, in coordination with Gematik. From January 1, 2026, RSA certificates will no longer be usable. Medisign aims to facilitate a seamless exchange process for affected cardholders in order to ensure uninterrupted operation.

The exchange program is slated to begin this summer, with detailed information and further guidance being made available on the company's website. A spokesperson indicated that cardholders will be contacted directly regarding the replacement process.

Recently, Medisign has received inquiries from pharmacies about the issue, and the company is responding to these on an individual basis. A FAQ section for the mass exchange will be published shortly.

Additionally, D-Trust has provided information regarding the application for new SMC-B or eHBA cards. As per the company's announcement, pharmacists will be able to submit their follow-up applications through D-Trust's application portal starting mid-May, assuming there have been no changes to certification-related data. An online guide for obtaining replacement cards will be available from D-Trust. If data changes have occurred, a new initial application through the respective chamber will be necessary.

Moreover, pharmacists who wish to apply for a replacement card before May may submit a new initial application through their respective chambers. With a D-Trust eHBA, they will be fully prepared for the use of the card within the TI 2.0 framework. They can also set up a TI remote signature account during the ordering process, which will later facilitate electronic signing without the need for an eHBA and card reader.

As for connectors, the first certificates are set to expire mid-year. Gematik is providing information on the extension of these certificates, which typically undergo automatic updates. Pharmacies with questions about their certificates should consult their service provider.