The challenging adaptation during doctor visits is linked to several changes. The era of pink prescription slips in doctors' offices and pharmacies is coming to an end as electronic prescriptions replace the paper version.
Related topic: Sick leave by telephone possible again - what you need to know
The deadline is January 1, 2024. From this day onward, electronic prescriptions will be mandatory. In this case, doctors are obligated to issue electronic prescriptions for medications.
A complex adjustment during doctor visits: What to expect
There are three ways to redeem prescriptions:
- Patients need either an app for electronic prescriptions;
- A health card.
The electronic prescription is also available in paper form, as patients can choose to receive a printout of the new prescription with a QR code, which can then be exchanged at the pharmacy.
A prerequisite for participation is the presence of the necessary software updates in the practice, clinic, and pharmacy administration systems. The electronic prescription is not something entirely new; it has long been available in many medical practices.
From July 1, 2023, individuals with compulsory health insurance will also be able to redeem prescriptions at the pharmacy using their health insurance card. The electronic health card is inserted into the reader, and the prescription is loaded from the server.
Provided, of course, that the respective medical practice has the technical capability to send electronic prescriptions to the so-called specialized electronic prescription service—server. The pharmacy software must also be appropriately updated.
Patients also have two other options for redeeming electronic prescriptions at the pharmacy:
- Paper printout: instead of the "pink slip," the patient receives a paper printout with the prescription code.
- Electronic prescription app: the patient receives the prescription directly on their smartphone. They can send it to their chosen pharmacy and pre-order the required medication.
The electronic prescription applies only to those with compulsory health insurance. Anyone wishing to use an electronic prescription must undergo authentication using the health insurance company code in the electronic prescription app.
To use the "Electronic Prescription" app, the insured person first needs an NFC-enabled health card. If such a card is not yet available, it can be requested from their health insurance company.
Related topics:
The transition to electronic prescriptions can significantly impact a patient's health management, as they need to adapt to using apps or health cards for prescription redemption.
Maintaining good health is crucial during this period of change, as it ensures the body can cope with the adjustment process effectively.
