The E-Prescription - Digital Prescription for Medications

The electronic prescription (E-prescription) is transforming the German healthcare system. Since January 1, 2024, doctors must issue digital prescriptions for medications, replacing the traditional pink paper form with the E-prescription.

The rollout of the E-prescription is happening in stages. Since September 2022, pharmacies have been able to process E-prescriptions. Now, doctors are increasingly required to issue electronic prescriptions. Patients can redeem the E-prescription using their electronic health card, a mobile app, or a printed code.

This innovation offers numerous benefits. Patients save time and trips to the doctor. Doctors can streamline their workflows, and pharmacies benefit from a more efficient medication dispensing process. The E-prescription marks the beginning of a new era in healthcare.

What is the E-Prescription and the Transition from Paper Prescriptions

The E-prescription is a significant step towards digitizing healthcare. It replaces the well-known pink paper prescription, modernizing the prescription process.

Gematik, responsible for Germany’s telematics infrastructure, is driving this development.

The Transition from Paper to Digital Format

Since January 1, 2024, the E-prescription has been mandatory for prescription medications. Doctors create and sign prescriptions digitally using their electronic healthcare provider ID.

Since September 2022, pharmacies have been equipped to process E-prescriptions.

Basic Functionality of the E-Prescription

The E-prescription is stored in the central E-prescription service. Patients can redeem it at pharmacies using their electronic health card, an app, or a printed code.

This digital prescription system enables additional features, such as medication reminders and interaction checks.

Timeline for Nationwide Implementation

The introduction of the E-prescription is taking place in phases. As of July 2025, controlled substances can be prescribed electronically, followed by medical aids and devices in 2027.

Digital health applications will also be fully prescribed electronically starting in 2025. In case of technical issues, paper prescriptions will remain as a backup option.

Options for Redeeming the E-Prescription

The E-prescription makes it easy to obtain medications. There are several ways to redeem it, making the process more accessible for everyone.

Using the Electronic Health Card

Patients can redeem the E-prescription with their electronic health card (eGK) at a pharmacy. About 32% of people find this method convenient. They simply insert the card into a terminal to receive their medications.

Using the E-Prescription App

The E-prescription app is very popular, with 68% of users opting for it. The app works on smartphones with NFC capabilities. Users need a special card and a PIN from their health insurance provider.

The app also helps manage prescriptions and allows direct transfer to pharmacies.

Printed Code Option

Patients can also choose a printed code as an alternative. Approximately 18% prefer this option, which is especially helpful for older individuals who may be less tech-savvy. They show the printed code at the pharmacy to receive their medications.

The E-prescription system allows for partial or complete redemption. Orders placed before 11:30 a.m. are often available the same day.

Pharmacies can fulfill prescriptions quickly or even deliver them, saving patients time and trips.

Digital Security and Data Protection with the E-Prescription

The E-prescription introduces new security standards. Data is encrypted multiple times and stored securely, preventing unauthorized access and protecting sensitive information.

Each E-prescription has a digital signature from the prescribing doctor, making it tamper-proof and redeemable only once.

The security architecture was developed with experts, including the Federal Office for Information Security and the Federal Commissioner for Data Protection. Security measures are continuously reviewed and improved.

E-prescriptions are not stored on the electronic health card; instead, they are kept in the central E-prescription service. Data is automatically deleted after 100 days.

This builds trust in the new technology, assuring patients that their data is well-protected.

Benefits for Patients and Healthcare Providers

The E-prescription changes how medications are prescribed and dispensed, offering numerous advantages for patients, doctors, and pharmacies, ultimately making the healthcare system more efficient.

Time Savings and Convenience for Patients

Patients find the E-prescription highly convenient, saving time, especially for those with chronic conditions or mobility issues. They can obtain medications without visiting the doctor’s office.

Optimized Practice Workflows

Doctors save a significant amount of time with the E-prescription. Digital signatures simplify their work, and it provides better oversight of patient medications.

Improvements in Pharmacy Operations

The E-prescription streamlines pharmacy operations. Pharmacies receive accurate prescriptions and have fewer follow-up questions, reducing paper usage and helping the environment.

FAQ

What is the E-prescription?

The E-prescription is a digital version of the medication prescription. Since January 1, 2024, it has replaced the traditional pink paper prescription in Germany. It allows digital creation, transmission, and redemption of prescriptions for prescription medications.

How can I redeem an E-prescription?

There are three ways to redeem an E-prescription: 1) Using the electronic health card (eGK) at the pharmacy, 2) Through the E-prescription app on an NFC-enabled smartphone, or 3) With a printed code containing the prescription details.

Do I need a smartphone to use the E-prescription?

No, a smartphone is not required. You can redeem the E-prescription using your electronic health card or a printed code at the pharmacy.

Is the E-prescription secure?

Yes, E-prescriptions are encrypted multiple times and stored securely. They are signed digitally by doctors, making them tamper-proof and redeemable only once. The security architecture was developed with input from the Federal Office for Information Security.

Can I redeem E-prescriptions at any pharmacy?

Yes, you can redeem E-prescriptions at any pharmacy in Germany, including online pharmacies. You are free to choose your preferred pharmacy.

What are the benefits of the E-prescription for patients?

Patients benefit from time savings and the ability to receive refills without visiting the doctor’s office. They can also pre-order medications, improving medication management and patient safety.

Are E-prescriptions stored on the electronic health card?

No, E-prescriptions are not stored on the electronic health card. Instead, they are kept in the central E-prescription service, and the health card serves only as a key to access the E-prescription at the pharmacy.

Can all types of prescriptions be issued electronically?

Currently, the E-prescription applies to prescription medications. In the future, controlled substances, medical aids, and digital health applications will also be prescribed electronically.

How does the E-prescription app work?

The E-prescription app allows you to manage E-prescriptions on an NFC-enabled smartphone. You will need an NFC-enabled electronic health card and a PIN from your health insurance provider. The app enables you to view prescriptions and send them directly to pharmacies.

What benefits does the E-prescription offer for doctors and pharmacies?

Doctors benefit from automatic completeness checks and reduced administrative workload. Pharmacies receive properly formatted prescriptions, face fewer follow-up questions, and can optimize their workflows. Overall, the E-prescription enhances efficiency in the healthcare system.