From January 2025, the electronic patient record (ePA) will be available to all those with statutory health insurance. It is intended to facilitate the exchange of important health data, but also raises questions about data protection and accessibility. An overview of advantages and disadvantages.
The electronic patient record (ePA) will be introduced in Germany for all legally insured people from January 2025. The aim of this initiative is to modernize the German healthcare system and improve patient care. The ePA is intended to serve as a digital storage location for all important health data and to facilitate the exchange of information between doctors, pharmacists, clinics and patients. The use of the ePA is voluntary and insured persons can object to the facility.
Electronic patient records: These are the advantages
Improved exchange of information: The ePA facilitates the exchange of medical documents between doctors, pharmacies, clinics and patients. Information is immediately available and does not need to be requested, which can lead to faster treatment.
Avoidance of double examinations: Central access to the medical history allows unnecessary double examinations to be avoided. This relieves pressure on both doctors and patients and can lead to cost savings.
Improved medication safety: By integrating the electronic medication plan into the EHR, the risk of medication errors and interactions is reduced. This can be crucial, especially in emergencies.
Improved medication safety: By integrating the electronic medication plan into the EHR, the risk of medication errors and interactions is reduced.
Facilitating changing doctors: The ePA simplifies changing doctors because all relevant health data is available centrally.
Simplified obtaining second opinions: Digital access to health data makes it easier to obtain second medical opinions.
Electronic patient records: These are the disadvantages
Data protection and data security: The central storage of sensitive health data poses risks of unauthorized access and data misuse. Critics warn of possible security deficiencies and the erosion of medical confidentiality
Commercialization of health data: There is concern that health data could be used for commercial purposes, especially when collaborations with large technology companies are sought.
Technical challenges: The implementation of the EHR requires extensive technical infrastructure and training of medical staff, which can lead to initial difficulties.
Conclusion: Great potential, but risks must be taken seriously
The electronic health record offers numerous benefits, particularly in terms of sharing information and improving patient care. At the same time, however, data protection concerns must be taken seriously and appropriate security measures must be implemented to ensure the trust of the insured.
Sources: Federal Ministry of Health, ZDF, consumer advice center
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