Germany Launches Nationwide Rollout of Electronic Patient Records

The new system aims to enhance healthcare transparency, improve treatment outcomes, and support medical research while addressing data security concerns.

Electronic patient records (ePA) are being introduced in Germany, starting with a pilot in three regions before a planned nationwide rollout by March or April 2025.
The ePA system will consolidate health data such as diagnoses, lab results, and medication lists, improving access and reducing redundant procedures.
Patients will have control over their records via a mobile app, allowing them to manage access, upload data, and transfer information when switching insurers.
The system operates on an opt-out basis, with over 70 million records expected to be created; patients can still delete their records or opt out at any time.
Data security measures include domestic server storage, encrypted access, and pseudonymized data sharing for research, though concerns about privacy remain.