AOK calls for stricter rules on digital health apps

The AOK-Bundesverband is calling for fundamental changes to the regulation, approval, and reimbursement of digital health applications (DiGA), commonly known as ‘apps on prescription.’ In a new position paper, the health insurance association argues that current regulations must be significantly tightened to ensure these tools provide measurable and sustainable benefits to insured members.

A primary concern is the current pricing model, which allows manufacturers to set unregulated prices during the first twelve months after a DiGA is listed. The AOK notes that this often leads to unjustified additional costs, with average prices for 2025 and early 2026 expected to be around 595 euros per application. The association advocates for abolishing these unregulated prices and implementing the same high standards for proving clinical benefit that apply to other statutory health insurance services.

Additionally, the AOK suggests implementing a mandatory minimum 14-day trial period for users to address high discontinuation rates.