What is the electronic patient record (ePA), and what should I do if I don't want one?

What it is: The electronic patient record (elektronische Patientenakte, ePA) collects doctors' reports, lab results, your medication list and hospital letters in one digital place. The aim is to give doctors easier access to information and to avoid unnecessary repeat tests and drug interactions.

Who has one: Since 2025 every Krankenkasse automatically creates an ePA for everyone with statutory health insurance; anyone who has not objected has one. If you are privately insured, ask your insurer whether they offer it.

You are in control: With your Krankenkasse's ePA app you can see the documents in your file, delete documents, decide which doctors can see the file and block specific doctors. If you do not use the app, you can contact your Krankenkasse's independent ombudsman office (Ombudsstelle).

Objecting (Widerspruch): If you do not want an ePA, you can object to your Krankenkasse at any time: in the app, in writing or by phone. If the file has already been created, it will be deleted. You can also object to specific parts only, for example the medication list or the use of your data for research.

Sensitive information: You can tell your doctor not to add sensitive information, such as mental health, sexual health or abortion, to the file. Objecting does not affect your access to healthcare.