AOK survey shows high support for using electronic patient records for research

A survey conducted by forsa on behalf of the AOK Federal Association indicates that 76 percent of the population supports using pseudonymized data from electronic patient records (ePA) for public interest health and care research.

Starting in January 2027, pseudonymized data will be transmitted to a research data center. AOK users are currently being notified of this upcoming change through the “AOK Mein Leben” app, the AOK website, and other channels.

Users have the right to object to the data transfer or decline specific uses of their information. Those who do not use the app or desktop version can submit an objection directly to their health insurance provider, including through ePA ombudsman offices. Only approximately ten percent of respondents expressed an intention to object to the data transmission.