Germany has implemented a new system for electronic prescriptions as part of their efforts to modernize their healthcare system. The electronic prescription system, also known as e-prescription, allows doctors to send prescriptions directly to pharmacies through a secure digital platform. This eliminates the need for patients to physically carry paper prescriptions to pharmacies, making the process more efficient and convenient.
One of the significant advantages of electronic prescription is that it reduces errors caused by illegible handwriting and transcription errors. The digital system also allows doctors to access the patient’s medication history, which helps in avoiding adverse drug interactions and prescribing the right medication.
As of January 1, 2024, the use of e-prescriptions for prescription medications will be mandatory for people on statutory health insurance (Gesetzlich). The pink paper prescription will no longer be valid. People on statutory health insurance will now only receive prescription medication via e-prescription and can redeem this with:
- their electronic health card (eGK)
- via app or
- with a printed copy that includes a QR Code from their doctor
You can redeem the e-prescription at a pharmacy of your choice or an online pharmacy.
Contracted doctors (Vetragsärztinnen und -ärzte) who are not yet able to issue an e-prescription due to technical reasons must use the paper prescription previously provided (pink paper).
Using the app
People with statutory health insurance can download the Gematik e-prescription app. You can download these in the common app stores (App Store, Google Play, AppGallery) and from the Gematik website.
On the Gematik website, you will also find information on how you can use the e-prescription without a smartphone.
Advantages of the app
- With the e-prescription app, you can conveniently receive your prescription on your smartphone.
- You can also use the app to look up important information or how to take your medication.
- Do you need a follow-up prescription? You can request this from your medical practitioner and then access it in your app – without visiting the doctor’s office.
- The family function in the e-prescription app relieves the burden of caring for relatives. The function makes it possible to manage and redeem prescriptions for family members in your own app. These can be parents’ prescriptions as well as those of siblings or children. The number of profiles is not limited.
- The e-prescription app shows you the pharmacies in your area. You can also view additional information, such as opening times or whether the pharmacy offers a courier service.
- You can order your medication online directly from the e-prescription app – either to pick it up at your pharmacy or conveniently delivered to your home via courier service.
How to register on the app
There are two different ways to register/log into the e-prescription app.
- Registration with the electronic health card (eGK) and PIN
- Registration via your health insurance company’s app (Krankenkassen-App)
Registration with the electronic health card:
To register with your eGK you need:
- An NFC-enabled smartphone (with at least iOS 15 or Android 7)
- An NFC-enabled health card and PIN
If you have an NFC-enabled health card and PIN yet, apply for both from your health insurance company. You can watch a video that will explain how the registration works on the E-Rezept website.
Using your electronic insurance card (eGK)
Your doctor prescribes you an e-prescription. This data is stored in a secure central telematics infrastructure (TI).
At the pharmacy, you insert your card into the Card Terminal.
The pharmacist retrieves all your open e-prescriptions from the TI and gives you your medication.
Your card only serves as a key, to identify you, the data for the prescription is not stored on the card. If you lose your card, contact your health insurance company immediately.
Using the e-prescription without a smartphone
You can also use e-prescriptions without a smartphone. Your doctor can give you a printout of your prescription. This will contain all the information needed in a QR Code. It will be signed electronically by the doctor, so there is no need for a manual signature.
The staff at the pharmacy will scan the code and process the prescription.
For more info see the E-Rezept website
Related content
Visiting a Doctor – Phrases
here are some basic phrases and terms to help you on your next general doctor’s visit. Making an appointment A typical conversation to make an appointment will be as follows: Hallo, my name is Mrs xxx, and I would like to make an appointment with Dr xxx please. – Hallo, mein Name ist Frau xxx und ich möchte einen Termin vereinbaren Are you a patient with us – Sind Sie Patient bei uns? Yes or No. If No they will ask for your details. They will also ask if you are on public or private medical insurance. They will most likely ask what is wrong and whether it is an emergency (Notfall) They will tell you when the next appointment is available. If it is not an emergency, have a date ready that suits you so you can ask if they can see you then. There are different ways they can say it to you, just listen for the date and time. – an example “der nächste freie Termin ist am 15. Januar um 10:00 Uhr” You can respond with “das passt, danke” if you are happy with the time and date If it is an emergency, please refer to our Emergencies page. There are also some emergency phrases you can use Some common ailments I have injured myself – Ich habe mich verletzt I have an injury on my left arm – Ich habe eine Verletzung am linken Arm I had an accident – Ich hatte einen Unfall I have a headache/fever – Ich habe Kopfschmerzen/Fieber I have a sore throat – Ich habe Halsschmerzen. You can find a good lexicon on Flu here I have a cold- Ich habe eine Erkältung I have pain – Ich habe Schmerzen I am feeling sick – mir ist schlecht At the Doctor’s consulting room You must report at reception. A typical phrase would be – Hallo mein Name ist Frau xxx, ich habe um 10 Uhr einen Termin. You will most like be asked to wait in the waiting room (das Wartezimmer) – warten Sie bitte im WartezimmerYou will be called by name when the doctor can see you. Your consultation Most doctors can understand basic English so if you really struggle ask if you can describe your symptoms in English.Have a look at the Terminology pages to help you prepare to describe your body parts in Germany. If you are referred to a specialist (Facharzt) you will be given a Überweisung.If you need medicine (Medikamente), you will be given a Rezept which you must take to the Pharmacy (Apotheke). Sick leave You do not have to tell your manager or HR department what is wrong with you when you are on sick leave.You have to let your employer know that you are ill, even if you do not to the doctor.If you receive a sicknote, (Krankschreibung/Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung/Gelbe Zettel) you have to submit it to your employer as soon as possible, please also refer to your company’s rules. As of 2023 your doctor will send a digital sick note (elektronischen Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigun or eAU) to your Medical insurance. Your employer will have access to this data. – currently only for public health insurance, private soon to follow.You can let them know “ich bin krank geschrieben, und werde am 22. Juli wieder im Büro sein” Tip – Always refer to your employment contract for your company rules and regulations. “Grundsätzlich gilt gemäß Gesetz, dass bei einer Krankheit, die voraussichtlich länger als drei Tage dauert, eine ärztliche Bescheinigung vorgelegt werden muss, um der Nachweispflicht entsprechend nachzukommen. Diese sollte spätestens am vierten Tag der Krankheit beim Arbeitgeber liegen. Wie Sie dies bewerkstelligen, obliegt Ihnen. In diesem Zusammenhang sind die Kalender- und nicht die Arbeitstage entscheidend.” – Arbeitsrechte In Germany, you are entitled to 6 weeks of paid sick leave Disclaimer – The information on this page is based on personal experiences and research, we are not qualified to give any legal advice and we do not accept any form of liability resulting from reading this article. Related content
Women’s Health
Your Health, Your Journey: Navigating Women’s Healthcare in Germany Your Health, Your Journey: Navigating Women’s Healthcare in Germany Contraception Contraception is a vital aspect of reproductive healthcare, and it is readily available at pharmacies. However, to obtain birth control pills, IUDs, and diaphragms, you will need a prescription from your trusted gynaecologist. It’s always best to consult with a medical professional to determine which contraception method would be most suitable for you based on your health history and lifestyle.In case of emergencies, pharmacies do stock emergency contraception, which is easily accessible without a prescription. It’s important to note that emergency contraception should not be used as a regular form of contraception, but rather for unplanned or unprotected intercourse situations.It’s essential to keep in mind that Public Health Insurance (GVK) does not cover contraception costs. Therefore, it’s advisable to discuss the cost implications of any contraception method you choose during your consultation with your healthcare provider. Maternity When it comes to maternity costs, it’s important to know what your health insurance plan covers. Public Health insurance (GVK) is a great option as it covers all maternity costs. However, it’s important to note that some private insurers may only offer maternity coverage as an additional cost. That’s why it’s crucial to review your insurance plan thoroughly to ensure that you have the coverage you need during one of the most important times of your life. Don’t leave anything to chance, take the time to research and understand your insurance plan. Finding a Doctor Finding a doctor can be a challenge especially if you are looking for an English-speaking doctor.Specialists in gynaecology and obstetrics are called “Frauenarzte” and “Gynäkologe” and are the central contact persons for gender-specific diseases and other women’s concerns, such as Pregnancy, menstruation, family planning, contraception and preventive care.The following websites can help in your search Jameda Med kolleg Doctolib – can also book your appointment here Your Gynea visit In Germany, visiting a gynaecologist (Frauenarzt/Frauenärztin) can be quite different from what South African women are used to, especially when it comes to modesty and medical approach. German doctors tend to have a more clinical and practical view of nudity, often expecting patients to undress completely from the waist down/up without much fuss. Unlike in South Africa, where gowns or sheets might be provided for modesty, German gynaecologists typically conduct examinations without such coverings. Some women find this direct approach efficient, while others may feel exposed. Screening In Germany, public health insurance (GVK) covers comprehensive annual screenings for cervical, breast, and ovarian cancer. Pap smear for cervical cancerTo get a mammogram, you typically need a referral (die Überweisung) from your gynaecologist or general practitioner. If you’re over 50, you will receive an invitation every two years for a mammogram, ensuring regular, proactive health care. Private health insurance coverage varies depending on the individual plan. HPV test: Not routinely offered unless there are abnormalities found in your Pap smear. If something’s off: You may be invited for repeat testing or a closer diagnostic follow-up (called a Kolposkopie). More info about HPV Vaccination can be found on the Robert Koch Institut MammogramTo get a mammogram, you typically need a referral (die Überweisung) from your gynaecologist or general practitioner. If you’re over 50, you will receive an invitation every two years for a mammogram, ensuring regular, proactive health care. Private health insurance coverage varies depending on the individual plan. For further details, you can refer to resources about health insurance coverage in Germany. 🩺 Sexual Health Services in Germany IYour sexual health is a vital part of your overall well-being — and in Germany, there are confidential, respectful, and professional services to support you, regardless of your relationship status or medical history. 🌸 What’s Available: STI Testing: Testing for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and other infections is widely available through gynaecologists (Frauenärzte), general practitioners (Hausärzte), and local public health offices (Gesundheitsämter). Some services are free or offered anonymously, especially at local health departments. Contraception: You’ll find a wide range of contraception options — from the pill, patch, and IUD to implants and condoms. Note: Most contraceptives (except condoms) are not fully covered by health insurance after age 22, so ask your doctor about costs and coverage. Emergency Contraception: The morning-after pill (Pille danach) is available without a prescription at most pharmacies. Ask the pharmacist for assistance — and don’t be afraid to request English-speaking help. Routine Screenings: Cervical cancer screening (Pap smear) is offered yearly from age 20. HPV testing is available for women over 35 every three years. For further details, you can refer to resources about health insurance coverage in Germany. Many cities offer free or low-cost counselling on sexuality, family planning, relationships, and gender identity. Some organisations provide support in English or other languages. Pro Familia – Germany’s largest nonprofit provider of sexual health counselling. Liebesleben.de – A government-run website offering clear, sex-positive info in German. Support groups Afloat– parent-to-be support group Candice Bake, Life Coach – work specifically with expats navigating the emotional and mental ups and downs of settling into a new city, culture, or way of life Vocabulary Resources on the web Federal Ministry of Health The Federal Joint Committee – a decision-making body of the joint self-government of physicians, dentists, hospitals and health insurance funds in Germany. Deutsche Menopause Gesellschaft Gesund Bund – Information about your health in Germany Related content Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email
Ask a SA Pharmacist in DE
A qualified pharmacist offered to assist in trying to answer questions regarding substitute suggestions for South African pharmaceutical products.Very important – always refer to your doctor or pharmacist before taking medicationThe Admin team of this website are not medical professionals and cannot give any medical advice. Please do not misuse this service. The admin of the South Africans in Germany website will be able to read your submissions, so please do not add too many personal or private details. Answers will be sent back to us and not to you directly. We will then forward it back to you. We would like to build a Frequently asked questions page related to the questions you asked. No personal details will be shared on the website. We reserve the right to not forward your submission at our own discretion. Submissions will not be forwarded on a daily basis but at regular intervals. Submissions will be deleted from our mailbox after a 30-day period. Answers may be shared on our website Related content
Visiting a doctor
Navigating Healthcare in Germany Visiting a doctor in Germany can feel overwhelming at first, but understanding how the system works will help you feel confident and prepared. When I first arrived in Germany, I was fortunate to travel back to South Africa frequently. I relied on that to manage my medical check-ups, avoiding visits to German doctors whenever possible. That strategy worked well—until I hurt my back and had no choice but to seek medical attention locally. Although I could speak German, I struggled to recall the specific terms for body parts and medical conditions, which made communication incredibly challenging. My advice? Don’t wait until an emergency forces you to find a doctor. Start by scheduling your routine check-ups early on—it’s an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the healthcare system and your local medical professionals. German doctors are highly professional and competent, but their approach can feel very business-like compared to what you might be used to in South Africa. They tend to be direct and honest, and they expect you to take responsibility for your health. For example, when I visited an orthopaedist for my back injury, the doctor not only treated me with an injection but also emphasized holistic recovery methods. He was blunt about the need to strengthen my body and even scolded me for not taking better care of myself. It was a stark contrast to the more sympathetic approach I was accustomed to in South Africa. Another important difference is that some German doctors may not accept your medical history from South Africa. Instead, they’ll conduct their own tests before beginning treatment. While this can be frustrating, it also ensures a thorough and accurate diagnosis. If you’re new to Germany, embracing the local healthcare system sooner rather than later can save you a lot of stress down the road. Finding a doctor Finding a doctor in Germany can be challenging, especially if you’re looking for an English-speaking practitioner. Your general practitioner (GP) is called a Hausarzt, and you are free to choose your doctor. However, to see a specialist (Facharzt), you will often need a referral (Überweisung) from your GP. Here are some websites to help with your search: Jameda Med Kolleg Doctolib – You can also book your appointment directly on this platform. Additionally, we have listed some medical professionals on our website, many of whom have a South African background and speak at least one of the official languages. For further recommendations, consider reaching out to local expat communities—they can be a valuable resource for finding trusted doctors. Online Consultations You can talk to a doctor online on Mobi Doctor. They are not covered by medical insurance. 💡 While online doctors can be a convenient option in certain situations, visiting a doctor in person is often essential for a thorough examination and accurate diagnosis. I was having an issue that I just couldn’t get better. I ended up using an online doctor service, and got antibiotics, and was better quick quick. It was about 25€, and I had to pay for meds. The prescriptions are accepted by the pharmacists – you can just show it to them on your phone, no physical print out needed. (Note from admin, this is not always accepted by all pharmacies, some require a printout) Shelley-Ann The prescriptions from online portals are usually accepted when they are issued through secure portals that are communicated directly to the pharmacies email address to avoid fraud. The scripts are usually private scripts so the “gesetzliche Krankenkasse” will not pay for it. They only pay for medicines issued on an official German “Kassenrezept” JulianPharmacist They will only be able to issue private scripts, meaning the Public health insurance will not pay for it. As long as the prescription was issued in an EU Country, you can submit it to a pharmacy in Germany, but you will pay for it yourself. KarelPharmacist Mobi doctor Good to know If you are on the public or Government “gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV) ” health insurance, you must always take your medical card with you to your appointment. Your bills will be sent directly to the insurance. If you are on GVK, make sure that your doctor is registered on the public healthcare system or Kassenärzte and that they accept GVK, some only accept private patients and you will have to pay out of your own pocket if you are on the public health insurance. If you are privately insured, you will receive a bill which you have to pay and claim back from your insurance. Antibiotics are only used as a last resort, if you have a cold you might get some Aspirin and be told to get some bed rest. German doctors do not have an issue with nakedness and you might be asked to strip down to the basics when you have a more thorough examination like an EKG. Prepare beforehand by writing down what you want to say and translating it into German beforehand. Miscommunication can happen easily when you’re unfamiliar with medical terms, symptoms, or body parts. Check out our related content on medical terminology to help you communicate effectively. Your bill The codes on your bill should correspond to the ICD codes, which is a globally recognized system that is used to label medical diagnoses. You can search the codes hereCancellation of appointmentsIf you cannot make your appointment, cancel as early as possible and make your new appointment right away. Confirm the cancellation by e-mail or in writing. If you do not cancel an appointment in time you can be charged for it, see § 615 BGB (Paragraph 615 of the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch) Pharmacies In Germany, pain medication that is easily available in South African grocery stores can only be purchased at a pharmacy (Apotheke). Additionally, the rules for over-the-counter medications (Rezeptfrei) are much stricter here.If you have questions about medication, our “Ask a Pharmacist” service connects you with South African pharmacists working in Germany who can provide guidance. To find an emergency pharmacy (Notdienst-Apotheke), you
You must be logged in to post a comment.