Electronic Patient Record: Another Record System Provider in Approval

So far, there are two record systems for the electronic patient record (ePA): one from the consortium Rise and Bitmarck, and one from IBM. Now, at least one more record system is undergoing approval, as two independent sources confirmed to heise online.

According to further information available to the "Dienst für Gesellschaftspolitik" (dfg), another record system has been in the testing phase since the beginning of April, which is being developed together with the consulting firm Ernst & Young (EY). This third ePA solution is reportedly intended for the eleven local health insurance funds (AOKen). The AOK had already commissioned EY for its current ePA implementation, with IBM involved as a subcontractor. However, the contract with IBM is now said to be terminated.

Instead, according to the report, a consortium of various companies is to take over the services in the future. The companies previously contacted by heise online – including health insurance funds that are IBM customers, such as AOK, as well as participating companies like EY – have not yet commented on this.

A first Connectathon is scheduled to take place in mid-April 2026, according to a slide from a Gematik meeting published by the dfg. At this meeting, Gematik intends to compare the three solutions for an upcoming ePA version. In parallel, manufacturers' independent tests and expert reviews are underway.

Stability of the Telematics Infrastructure

In the past, there has been repeated criticism of the stability of the telematics infrastructure. Disruptions to the e-prescription service, also operated by IBM, are particularly critical. The company has not yet responded to press inquiries from heise online. So far, IBM is the record system manufacturer for most insured persons; its customers include, among others, the AOKen, Techniker Krankenkasse, and Barmer. According to information from dfg, almost all affected funds have terminated their contracts as of June 30, 2027, or plan to do so.

Recurring Problems

The launch of the "ePA for all" on January 15, 2025, was only achieved by IBM under great pressure. Both Bitmarck and IBM repeatedly experienced compatibility issues. At AOK Bayern, problems occurred when transferring patient records during health fund changes. Records were temporarily deleted during migration between health funds. At the end of March, the health insurance fund told heise online that the process of restoring the records was still ongoing.

(mack)