digitalization
Survey: Openness to changed e-health records
An electronic patient file with an e-prescription can be seen on a screen at the Neurozentrum Tempelhof in Berlin. photo
© Jens Kalaene/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa
The electronic patient record was launched with great expectations, but to date it has only led a shadowy existence. A change to the “opt-out” principle could now bring new impetus.
According to a survey, the planned standard introduction of electronic patient files for everyone with the option of rejecting them is generally met with open-mindedness.
Almost two-thirds (65 percent) like the corresponding government plans, according to the survey commissioned by the Bertelsmann Foundation and the Münch Foundation. 23 percent said they were undecided and 12 percent said they were against. A change is intended to boost the sluggish distribution of e-files: so far you have to actively request them – in future you should receive them automatically, but be able to actively object.
The electronic patient record was launched in 2021 as a voluntary offer for the 74 million people with statutory health insurance, but has so far only been used by a fraction. The e-files are intended to store data such as medical reports, X-rays and medication lists and thus make multiple examinations unnecessary. However, there are delays in networking the practices, and disputes about data protection are smoldering on several issues. In order to achieve a breakthrough, the traffic light coalition wants to switch to the “opt-out” principle. Minister Karl Lauterbach (SPD) is planning a digital law this year.
According to the survey, however, there are differences in the acceptance of the new approach: In the West, 70 percent of those surveyed find it good, 21 percent said they were undecided, and 9 percent rejected it. In East Germany, 46 percent agreed, 29 percent said they were undecided, and 26 percent said they disagreed. According to their own statements, a total of 31 percent of those surveyed want to make use of the opportunity to object, while 48 percent do not plan to do so.
According to the information provided, 1871 people aged 14 and over who also have Internet access were personally interviewed by the Kantar Institute in August and September 2022.
Federal Ministry of Health on e-patient files Coalition agreement, e-patient files p. 83 Digital strategy of the federal government, including on e-patient files