2024-04-11 09:25:58
The e-prescription has replaced the pink slip since January 1st. But how does the new system work and what do I do if I don’t have a smartphone?
Antibiotics, antihypertensives or thyroid tablets: Prescription medications are only available with a prescription. But this is now only issued digitally in the doctor’s office. What the switch to e-prescription means for patients.
How do I get my medication now?
In the practice, the doctor will immediately issue an electronic prescription after the examination. A prescription code is created that is needed to redeem it at the pharmacy. According to the Federal Ministry of Health, insured people have three options:
- E-prescription app: The patient receives the prescription directly on their smartphone and can show the code at the pharmacy. You must register in advance for the e-prescription app. The requirements for this are an NFC-enabled electronic health card (small black radio logo on it) and a PIN from the health insurance company.
- Electronic health card (eGK): To redeem with the card, insured persons only need a valid eGK in order to receive the medication. The pharmacy inserts this into a reader and receives the necessary insured data to access the e-prescription server and download the prescription. However, the recipe information is not stored on the card.
- Paper printout: Instead of the “pink slip,” patients can also get a paper printout with a prescription code at the doctor’s office. This is scanned in the pharmacy and the medication can then be dispensed.
However, the e-prescription is currently only available for those with statutory health insurance; private health insurance companies will gradually introduce it.
Advantages of the e-prescription:
If you need a follow-up prescription, for example for chronic illnesses, you may be able to avoid going to the doctor with the e-prescription. In addition, information on intake and dosage as well as the medication plan can be stored in the app.
What do I do if I don’t have a smartphone?
The code is then printed out on paper in the practice – this option still exists and is also necessary if you have the app but are not registered there with your health card. The printed code can be read in the pharmacy in the same way as the digital one.
How long is an e-prescription valid?
The e-prescription is valid for four weeks – the same time as the old pink prescription. In the e-prescription app you can check how long you can redeem your prescriptions.
By the way:
You can redeem individual medications in different pharmacies as each medication has its own record. This has not been possible so far. All medications prescribed on the paper prescription had to be redeemed at the same pharmacy.
Can another person also redeem my e-prescription?
Yes, as before, relatives can, for example, redeem the prescription. To do this, you need the relevant person’s electronic health card.