Efforts to enhance patient safety and medication management through Germany’s electronic patient record (ePA) system are facing challenges related to the continued use of paper prescriptions. The German Federal Association of Pharmaceutical Associations (ABDA) acknowledges the ePA’s potential as a cornerstone for secure drug provision, particularly with the automatic integration of electronic prescriptions.
However, ABDA President Thomas Preis highlighted a significant gap: approximately 20% of medications are still being prescribed on paper. This reliance on traditional methods hinders a complete assessment of a patient’s overall medication profile. While pharmacies are currently adding these paper-prescribed medications to the ePA, this process is not automated and requires manual intervention.
Preis emphasized the need for technical adjustments to ensure that over-the-counter and self-purchased medications are also captured within the ePA system, providing a holistic view of a patient’s drug intake. Currently, this information remains outside the electronic record.
Looking ahead, ABDA reports that over 90% of pharmacies are expected to be technically prepared for ePA integration by October 1, 2025, indicating a commitment to leveraging the technology for improved patient care and medication management. The ongoing adaptation of the system to accommodate paper prescriptions remains a priority for ensuring the ePA’s full effectiveness.