Since 1 January 2024, e-prescriptions have been mandatory for everyone with statutory health insurance in Germany. This means that doctors must issue and store prescriptions digitally. Instead of a paper prescription, patients receive a code which they can use to redeem the prescription at the 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 various ways:
- On the eGK: The code is stored on your electronic health card (eGK). You will need a smartphone with NFC functionality to read the code.
- SMS or email: You will receive the code via SMS or email.
- Printout: You can also take the code with you as a printout.
How does the e-prescription work?
- Doctor’s appointment: During your visit to the doctor, you will 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 will receive a code (e-prescription token).
- Redeeming at the pharmacy: You can redeem the e-prescription at the pharmacy in various 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.
- Dispensing of medication: Once the prescription has been redeemed, you will receive your medication.
Advantages of the e-prescription
- Faster and easier: The e-prescription can be issued and dispensed more quickly and easily than a paper prescription.
- Forgery-proof: The e-prescription is forgery-proof and cannot be lost.
- Improved medication safety: The e-prescription helps to better avoid duplicate prescriptions and drug interactions.
- More convenient for patients: Patients can redeem their e-prescriptions anytime, anywhere, including at online pharmacies.
Further information on e-prescriptions
- Federal Ministry of Health
- Gematik
- KBV – National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians
**Note:** This information is for general guidance only and does not replace professional advice from a doctor or pharmacist.
