Which new ePA functions are expected in 2026

Ms. Dimde, the electronic patient record (EHR) has been mandatory since October. So far, it's possible to view medication lists, upload medical findings, and upload discharge letters. What else is planned for the future, and what can physicians look forward to?

New features are planned for the medication area. The digitally supported medication process will be expanded to include a medication plan. This will allow structured dosage information and medication instructions to be added and viewed.

This allows even complex dosing regimens to be mapped out in a structured manner. This is an important building block for improved drug therapy and patient safety.

A new feature, full-text search, is also planned. This will allow documents to be searched for keywords to filter out relevant information.

There are also the medical information objects, the so-called MIOs. Which ones will be included in the ePA in the future, and when is this planned?

MIOs, or structured data, include, for example, the maternity record, vaccination record, child health record, and dental bonus record. The timing of the integration of these has not yet been finalized.

What exactly is the difference between the medication list and the planned electronic medication plan?

The medication list is a history of all medication-related activities—a longer-term view. The medication plan provides the most up-to-date overview, with an overview of current medication use by patients and those who assist with medication use, such as caregivers or family members.

Doctors can also see from the medication list whether prescriptions have been filled or not – right?

Exactly. We repeatedly find that this is very important information for care and treatment. For example, the medication list allows the doctor to immediately see whether a prescribed medication has been picked up.

This is important when a patient returns to the consultation because their condition isn't improving. The medication list is already helpful in this case.

We're already hearing from practicing physicians that they're annoyed that sanctions will be introduced starting in January for not filling out the ePA, but this doesn't apply to hospitals. This would be a game-changer, as it would allow discharge letters and similar documents to be found quickly in the ePA, eliminating the need for endless phone calls. Why does it take so long for hospitals? What needs to be done?

Hospitals have a completely different IT infrastructure than medical practices. Therefore, different fundamental considerations and preparations must be made on the IT side. In the doctor's office, we have a PVS system that is used.

In a hospital, many different systems interact. Those responsible must, of course, examine how the EHR can be seamlessly integrated into the institutional processes, including admission, stay, and discharge. This is simply more complex than for a single practice.

The ePA is a file maintained by the insured, but in terms of feedback from doctors, there doesn't seem to be much interest among patients.

This requires a more nuanced approach. The law states that the record is patient-managed. The opt-out electronic patient record (EHR) entails various principles. Patient engagement is essentially not even required.

Patients must actively decide if they do not want to create or use an electronic health record. Those who want to engage more intensively with the ePA can set up their health insurance provider's app, view documents, manage authorizations, etc.

This is a tool for greater transparency that can be used optionally. It is not mandatory and has no impact on the course or outcome of treatment. As a patient, you benefit from the ePA without actively engaging with it.

It is therefore extremely important that practice teams are aware, participate, and use the information for treatment and care purposes. Because that's what the ePA is all about!

Thank you for the interview!