Can you refuse the electronic medical record?

With the Germany-wide introduction, many patients are now asking themselves the question: Can I also refuse the electronic patient file? The short answer is yes, but you have to actively commit to it. We clarify.

The electronic patient record (ePA) is currently a voluntary facility that citizens can apply for. However, from January 15, 2025, the ePA will be created for all insured persons in Germany.

Since there is certainly criticism and risks with the ePA, some experts recommend rejecting the electronic patient file. This is also entirely possible because the ePA is voluntary. However, you must actively object.

Reject electronic patient records? Yes that works

The answer to the question of whether you can opt out of the electronic health record is: yes. The ePA is voluntary and no one can be forced to agree to the electronic use of personal data, according to the Federal Ministry of Health.

You can reject the electronic patient file, but you have to actively object. The most important things at a glance:

• From January onwards, all health insurance companies in Germany are legally obliged to create electronic patient files for their insured persons.
• To do this, you must inform the patients in writing.
• According to the consumer advice center, you have six weeks from the time of notification to reject the electronic patient file.
• The health insurance companies provide individual information about the options available for objection. As a rule, objections can be made online, by post or by telephone.
• By the way, you don’t have to give reasons if you want to reject the ePA.

Any more questions? Here you will find an overview of the most important questions about electronic patient records.

Opt-Out: You can object at any time

Even if you missed the deadline before it was made available, you can reject the electronic medical record. The consumer advice center explains that the so-called opt-out (refusal of consent) is possible at any time.

You can then do this either by contacting your health insurance company as mentioned above or using the respective ePA app. After you have lodged your objection, the ePA and the data it contains will be deleted.