The German healthcare system is undergoing several digital upgrades this year in order to improve the service.
One of the key features of the plan is that, for the first time, doctors will be able to prescribe healthcare apps to patients.
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Expected to pass into law this year, the policy means that health insurance companies will provide health services digitally on tablets, computers and smartphones. An example of such an app would be one specially designed for diabetes monitoring and care.
German Federal Minister of Health, Jens Spahn described the move as a "world first.”
There have been some reservations however. The Green Party has criticised the government for implementing new procedures with apps having proven their benefit.
Addressing this, the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices is set to examine app quality and safety, after which the developer must prove that the product better scare.
Other digital upgrades to the German healthcare service this year include provision of online doctor consultations, digital prescriptions and digital sick notes.
Source: DW
Image credit: iStock
