Germany electronic patient record implementation and billing

The implementation of Germany’s electronic patient record (ePA) has faced challenges regarding widespread adoption. Research indicates that approximately half of the population has not registered for the system, with registration difficulties being more pronounced among individuals with lower income and education levels.

Regarding medical billing, the Expanded Federal Assessment Committee has determined that reimbursements for populating and updating electronic patient records, as well as certain appointment mediation surcharges, will continue through December 31. This decision follows the GKV Contribution Rate Stabilization Act, which mandates the abolition of various services. While health insurance associations had initially sought to end these payments on October 1, the current ruling allows doctors and psychotherapists to continue billing for these specific services until the end of the year. These fee positions are scheduled to be removed from the Uniform Assessment Standard (EBM) on January 1.

The expiration of these reimbursements also affects surcharges introduced by the Appointment Service and Care Act (TSVG), including those for specialist appointments mediated through service centers and certain surcharges for general practitioners, pediatricians, and short-term psychotherapy.