From 2024, the e-prescription is set to become more widespread and accessible. However, the technical requirements are not yet in place for everyone involved in the process. Currently, only doctors whose practices are able to issue e-prescriptions can provide them to their patients. Insured individuals usually receive a printout of the e-prescription, but they also have the option to redeem it at the pharmacy using the e-prescription app or the electronic health card.
Many people are unaware of the existence of e-prescriptions, so it’s important to provide some answers to common questions. Please note that the information provided is still incomplete and more features will be added in the future. Here are some key points to know:
– What is an e-prescription? An e-prescription is the digital version of a paper prescription that allows patients to receive medication. It can be issued by doctors or psychotherapists in practices or clinics. Different types of e-prescriptions exist, including the pink prescription (valid for 28 days), the yellow prescription for drugs with strict conditions (valid for seven days), the green prescription for non-prescription drugs (valid indefinitely), and the blue prescription for privately insured individuals (valid for three months).
– What are the advantages of e-prescriptions? The main advantage is that patients can send the prescription directly to a pharmacy and order their medicine without leaving their homes. It also provides a forgery-proof file signed by the doctor or psychotherapist.
– How long has e-prescription been around? The implementation of the e-prescription is scheduled for 2021, with mandatory acceptance by pharmacies in Germany starting from September 1, 2022. It is expected to be available nationwide for those with statutory health insurance in the future.
– How can I recognize an e-prescription? The beginning of a printed e-prescription looks similar to a conventional prescription. However, there are several 2D codes on the printout that resemble matrix barcodes. The top right corner contains a collective code that may include up to three prescriptions.
– What requirements do I need to use e-prescription? You can receive an e-prescription in paper form from your doctor or psychotherapist. Alternatively, you can redeem it at the pharmacy using the electronic health card by inserting it into a card reader. To use the e-prescription app, you will need an NFC-enabled smartphone with at least iOS 14 or Android 7, as well as an electronic health card and a six-digit PIN.
– Does the card need to be held up to the smartphone every time to log in? According to Gematik, certain smartphones, mainly iOS devices with a “strongbox,” can allow registered users to log in for a longer period without re-entering access data.
– How does e-prescription work without a smartphone? Without a smartphone, you will receive a printed e-prescription with a 2D code. Most practices still issue standard paper prescriptions. However, starting from 2023, the e-prescription can also be redeemed using an electronic health card or the e-prescription app on a desktop computer, although a card reader is required.
– How do I redeem an e-prescription? There are several ways to redeem an e-prescription at the pharmacy. You can hand in the printed e-prescription, show a scanned or photographed copy, or submit it using the e-prescription app. Mail-order pharmacies are also an option. The app directory and the Gematik website provide a list of pharmacies that accept e-prescriptions.
– What happens if the internet or telematics infrastructure is not working? In case of internet or telematics infrastructure failures, it is advisable to wait for the issue to be resolved. However, if the problem persists, you may need to go back to the doctor and request a traditional paper prescription.
– Who can use e-prescriptions? Anyone who has the necessary technical equipment can use e-prescriptions. Family members or caregivers may also be able to use the app to manage and redeem prescriptions for others. Starting from 2023, privately insured individuals will also have access to e-prescriptions.
– What data is processed in the e-prescription app? The e-prescription app, developed by Gematik, allows patients to access their electronic prescriptions securely.
