Paper or digital? Free expression for e-patient files required
Paper or digital? Free expression for e-patient files required
New technologies in healthcare: free expression of the e-files required
The introduction of electronic patient files has the potential to revolutionize healthcare and improve medical care. But especially for older people or those who are not familiar with the digital world, new challenges can arise. In this context, patient protectors advocate the possibility of a free expression of the e-file.
Eugen Brysch, board member of the German Foundation for Patient Protection, emphasizes that it is important to offer all patients the opportunity to document their medical treatments in paper form. This is particularly relevant to people who have difficulties with electronic representation or prefer to find out in a classic way.
The technical implementation for the free expression must be carried out in the doctor's practices, and the costs should be reimbursed by the health insurance companies, says Brysch. This would ensure that nobody is excluded from the use of the E-ACTION on the basis of technical hurdles or financial considerations.
the e-file as a lifelong companion in healthcare
From the beginning of 2025, all legally insured persons should automatically receive an e-file from your health insurance company. This file serves as a personal memory for medication, findings and laboratory values that should accompany patients for a lifetime. The aim is to avoid drug interactions through the central data storage and to reduce unnecessary multiple examinations.
The e-files should also be available on the smartphone in order to facilitate access to important health information. Although this offer was introduced in 2021, it has so far been used little. The acceptance and use of the e-file could further increase through a free expression option.
It is now due to the health ministers and political decision-makers to ensure that the introduction of the E-Affe is accessible and practical for all patients. The demand for a free expression underlines the importance of designing the technologies in healthcare in such a way that they can be used equally for all population groups.
- Nag