As of January 1, 2024, e-prescriptions are mandatory for all patients with public health insurance in Germany. This means that doctors must issue and store prescriptions digitally. Instead of a paper prescription, patients receive a code that they can use to fill the prescription at a pharmacy.
What is an e-prescription?
An e-prescription is the digital version of a paper prescription. It is created and signed digitally by the doctor. Instead of a paper prescription, patients receive a code (e-prescription token). They can obtain this code in several ways:
- On the eGK: The code is stored on your electronic health card (eGK). You’ll need a smartphone with NFC functionality to read the code.
- Text message or email: You’ll receive the code via text message or email.
- Printout: You can also take the code with you as a printout.
How does the e-prescription work?
- Doctor’s visit: During your doctor’s visit, you’ll receive a diagnosis as usual and, if necessary, a prescription for medication.
- Digital prescription: The doctor creates the prescription digitally and signs it with their electronic signature.
- Code Instead of a Paper Prescription: Instead of a paper prescription, you’ll receive a code (e-prescription token).
- Redeeming at the pharmacy: At the pharmacy, you can redeem the e-prescription in several ways:
- With an eGK and NFC: Hold your eGK with the code up to the reader at the pharmacy.
- With a code via text message or email: Enter the code at the pharmacy counter.
- With a printout: Show the printout of the code at the pharmacy.
- Medication Dispensing: Once the prescription has been redeemed, you will receive your medication.
Advantages of the e-prescription
- Faster and easier: E-prescriptions can be issued and filled faster and more easily than paper prescriptions.
- Forgery-proof: The e-prescription is forgery-proof and cannot be lost.
- Improved medication safety: E-prescriptions help prevent duplicate prescriptions and drug interactions more effectively.
- More convenient for patients: Patients can fill their e-prescriptions anytime, anywhere, including at online pharmacies.
More information on e-prescriptions
- Federal Ministry of Health
- Gematik
- KBV - National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians
**Note:** This information is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice from a doctor or pharmacist.
