The file is not yet complete, which is why there are unnecessary double investigations. There is also no overview of the total costs. The RH saw potential in the control and implementation of ELGA. However, some improvements have already been implemented by the Ministry of Health, as they also emphasized.
The Court of Auditors’ investigation covered the years 2018 to 2022. When ELGA started in December 2015, there were no specific goals as to what it should achieve. The central health telematics law is “inconsistent and difficult to read,” the RH release said. The rules allowed for “different interpretations”. The development of a nationwide eHealth strategy was recommended.
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There was criticism of the incomplete display of electronic findings. So far, these have almost only been available in hospitals, complained the RH. The e-findings should be available from all healthcare providers, including specialist practices, radiology institutes and laboratories. Image data and blood values could then also be transmitted. The Court of Auditors would also further expand the e-vaccination certificate and e-medication applications. The “Patient Summary” has now been approved – a standardized summary of basic medical information for each person.
Electronic prescriptions and medications are used differently by healthcare providers. Patients can choose whether they want to participate. By the end of 2023, four vaccinations were required to be recorded in ELGA: Covid-19, influenza, Mpox (monkeypox) and human papillomavirus (HPV). The Court of Auditors is calling for an expansion here.
Rauch: “The Court of Auditors is right on many points”
Health Minister Johannes Rauch (Greens) was insightful in a written statement: “The Court of Auditors is right on many points in its report: The expansion of ELGA into a real health portal with practical use has so far progressed far too slowly.” A lot of new things are already being planned, now it’s time to implement them, says Rauch. “The results will gradually become visible in the coming years.”
NEOS health spokeswoman Fiona Fiedler was critical of the test report. “Far too much potential for digitalization has been left behind,” she said in a press release. The Court of Auditors confirms their fears, which is why the NEOS are insisting on “necessary system reforms for the benefit of patients in order to finally make the healthcare system fit for the future”.
ePaper
**Interview with Health Minister Johannes Rauch on the Court of Auditors’ Report on ELGA**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Minister Rauch. The recent report from the Court of Auditors highlighted several issues regarding the ELGA (Electronic Health Record System). Could you summarize your main takeaways from the report?
**Johannes Rauch**: Thank you for having me. The Court of Auditors raised valid points that resonate with our ongoing challenges. They’ve pointed out that the expansion of ELGA into a comprehensive health portal has been progressing too slowly. This is a concern for us, as we recognize the importance of having a fully functional electronic health system that benefits all patients.
**Interviewer**: One significant criticism was the lack of clear goals when ELGA was launched in 2015. How do you plan to address this moving forward?
**Johannes Rauch**: It’s true that when ELGA started, there were no specific targets, which has contributed to the confusion and the inconsistent interpretations of the guidelines. Moving forward, we’re committed to developing a concrete eHealth strategy that outlines clear objectives and timelines. This will ensure everyone involved understands their roles and responsibilities, avoiding unnecessary double investigations.
**Interviewer**: The report also mentioned the incomplete availability of electronic findings, which are mainly accessible in hospitals. How can this be improved?
**Johannes Rauch**: We’re aware that electronic findings need to be universally accessible across all healthcare providers, including specialist practices and laboratories. Our plan includes expanding the use of e-findings so that critical medical data, such as image and blood test results, can be shared seamlessly. This improvement will enhance the continuity of care for patients.
**Interviewer**: NEOS health spokeswoman Fiona Fiedler criticized the report, stating that “far too much potential for digitalization has been left behind.” What is your response to this criticism?
**Johannes Rauch**: I appreciate the input from all political parties, including NEOS. Constructive criticism is essential for progress. I agree that we’ve missed opportunities with digitalization, but I want to emphasize that we are actively planning and implementing changes. The results might take time to materialize, but we assure everyone that significant advancements are being made to modernize our healthcare system.
**Interviewer**: what can patients expect in the coming years as these changes are rolled out?
**Johannes Rauch**: Patients can look forward to a more integrated healthcare experience where their medical information is easily accessible and seamlessly shared among providers. By the end of 2023, we aim to have key vaccinations recorded in ELGA and expand features like electronic prescriptions and medication applications. Our goal is to empower patients and provide them with more control over their health information.
**Interviewer**: Thank you for your insights, Minister Rauch. We look forward to seeing how ELGA evolves in the future.
**Johannes Rauch**: Thank you for having me. I’m optimistic about the improvements on the horizon.
