Germany Mandates Electronic Health Records for Doctors
The digital transformation of healthcare in Germany has taken a significant step with the mandatory use of electronic health records (eHRAs) for doctors. Since October 1, 2025, doctors are required to enter important patient data into these records, benefiting both patients and the healthcare system.
As of the latest information, the nationwide rollout and enforcement of eHRAs are still in progress, with regional variations in implementation. Around 61,600 out of approximately 98,500 medical practices have already adopted eHRAs before the deadline, indicating a significant level of participation.
The eHRA system, set up by health insurance companies, currently covers around 70 million insured persons in Germany. Patients have the right to access their records and specify which doctors can view their data. Doctors are required to load important treatment data into the e-record, although it does not replace traditional practice documentation.
The eHRA includes a list of medications, automatically created from e-prescriptions, and will gradually expand to include more detailed information like medication plans with dosage instructions. Data in the eHRA is securely stored on servers in Germany, with each access logged with date and time. More than 93 percent of practices, dental practices, and pharmacies are technically equipped to work with eHRAs, ensuring a smooth transition to digital records.
In the future, pseudonymized data from eHRAs will be used for research purposes, further enhancing the practical benefits of the system for the entire healthcare sector.
The mandatory use of eHRAs for doctors in Germany marks a crucial milestone in modernizing the healthcare system. With the vast majority of practices equipped to handle eHRAs and a significant number already participating, the stage is set for improved patient care, enhanced research opportunities, and increased efficiency within the healthcare sector.
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