The Electronic Health Card Overview

Since 2015, the electronic health card (eGK) has been standard in Germany. It replaces the old health insurance card. The eGK is a key component in digital healthcare and part of the telematics infrastructure.

With the eGK, insured individuals can more easily visit doctors and dentists. They can also undergo preventive examinations. The card contains personal data such as names and a photo.

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is also integrated into the eGK, ensuring good coverage abroad.

The eGK uses NFC technology for contactless data transmission. It provides access to digital applications, such as the electronic patient record. Data protection is ensured through a personal PIN and specific access rights.

What is the Electronic Health Card?

Since 2015, the electronic health card (eGK) has been the standard for those insured under statutory health insurance in Germany. It enables access to digital health services, thus supporting the digitalization of healthcare.

Basic Functions and Features

The eGK has an NFC chip for secure data exchange. It allows the use of digital health services such as the electronic patient record. With NFC-enabled smartphones, insured individuals can manage their data.

The card stores emergency data and an electronic medication plan, improving medical care.

Importance for the German Healthcare System

The eGK makes medical care more efficient and of higher quality. It promotes the digitalization of healthcare. The use of digital health applications is voluntary and can be terminated at any time.

Mandatory Information on the Card

Important data is stored on the eGK, including name, date of birth, address, and insurance status. The start date of insurance coverage, the health insurance company, and the insurance number are also included.

A photo serves as a security feature. If lost, the eGK must be immediately blocked.

Digital Applications of the Electronic Health Card

The electronic health card (eGK) brings innovations to the German healthcare system. It enables access to digital health applications that facilitate health management.

NFC Technology and Contactless Transmission

The new eGK utilizes NFC technology, enabling contactless data exchange. This makes using the eGK quick and simple.

Integration with Smartphones and Tablets

Since January 1, 2024, patients can receive e-prescriptions via the e-prescription app. They can pre-order medications or have them delivered. Follow-up prescriptions can be stored in the app.

The electronic patient record holds important health data, which insured individuals manage themselves.

Access Options and Permissions

Access to data is granted using the eGK and personal PIN. Insured individuals determine which applications they use and decide on access rights to their data.

Only medical personnel may view data with patient consent. Automatic availability of the electronic patient record for everyone is planned for early 2025.

Emergency Data and Medication Plan

The electronic health card (eGK) enhances patient safety by enabling the storage of an emergency data record and an electronic medication plan.

Storage of Important Medical Information

The emergency data record contains critical health information such as allergies and chronic conditions. Doctors can access this information in emergencies without entering a PIN, which is especially useful for complex medical histories.

Management of Allergies and Pre-existing Conditions

Information about pregnancies and implants can also be stored. Doctors require an electronic professional ID to access this data. Patients can view and adjust their data at the doctor's office.

Electronic Medication Plan and Medication Safety

The electronic medication plan on the eGK improves medication safety. Patients taking more than three medications are entitled to this service, potentially saving up to 500,000 hospital stays per year.

Data Protection and Security Aspects

The electronic health card (eGK) sets new standards in health data protection. Since its introduction in 2003, protecting sensitive patient data has been a priority. The card uses modern technologies to ensure data security and strengthen patient rights.

Encryption Technologies

The eGK employs AES-256-bit encryption to protect data. This technology is highly secure and is used globally for sensitive information. The card's NFC function allows for contactless data exchange limited to a maximum range of 10 centimeters, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access.

Access Rights and Logging

A central aspect of data security is strict control of access rights. Insured individuals decide which data is stored on their eGK and who can access it. Access to medical data typically requires two-factor authentication. The eGK serves as the first factor, while the electronic professional ID is the second factor. Every access attempt is logged in detail, enhancing transparency and building trust in data security.

The telematics infrastructure, into which the eGK is integrated, meets the stringent requirements of the EU General Data Protection Regulation and the Federal Data Protection Act. This underscores the high level of health data protection in Germany and upholds patient rights in the digital age.

FAQ

What is the electronic health card (eGK)?

The eGK has been the official proof of services in Germany since 2015. It contains data such as names and birth dates. It also provides access to the telematics infrastructure for better healthcare.

What data is stored on the eGK?

The eGK stores data such as name and date of birth. Emergency data and an electronic medication plan can also be added.

What digital applications does the eGK enable?

The eGK allows applications such as e-prescriptions and electronic patient records. It is key in the German healthcare system.

How does the e-prescription work with the eGK?

E-prescriptions can be received via the e-prescription app. The eGK is used as an authentication medium.

What is the electronic patient record (ePA)?

The ePA is a digital system for health data. Insured individuals can manage it themselves. Access is granted using the eGK and PIN.

What emergency data can be stored on the eGK?

Allergies and conditions can be stored on the eGK. This data is accessible to doctors in emergencies without a PIN.

What is the electronic medication plan?

The electronic medication plan provides an overview of medications. It enhances safety and prevents interactions.

How is data protection ensured with the eGK?

The eGK uses encryption technologies to protect data. Insured individuals determine which data is stored. Access to data requires a personal PIN and is logged.

Is the use of the digital applications of the eGK mandatory?

No, the use is voluntary. Insured individuals decide whether and how to use the applications.

Can the eGK also be used abroad in Europe?

Yes, the reverse side of the eGK serves as the European Health Insurance Card. It allows access to medical services in other EU countries.