Electronic health card Soon compulsory photo

New e-health card: A photo is required and constitutional

19/11/2013

Just in time for the turn of the year, all insured persons must present the new electronic health card to the doctor if they wish to be treated. Because as of January 1, 2014 lose all since 1995 issued by the health insurance cash cards validity.

However, the Kassenärztliche Bundesvereinigung (KBV) contradicts this statement. "It's not like the old card can not be used after January 1, 2014," said KBV spokesman Roland Stahl. This was again operated by the GKV-Spitzenverband. "Doctors can work until October 1, 2014 with the old card and also bill“, said a spokesman. Patients could also provide a valid proof of insurance within ten days of treatment, if problems arise in one or the other doctor's office.

Currently, 95 percent of those insured already have the new electronic health card. All others should nevertheless endeavor to submit a photograph to their health insurance companies by the end of the year in order to prevent possible delays. So far, the new map provides information about the name, address and gender. The photo should serve to better identify the owner. Of course, only in the interests of the insured.

A complaint of a man against the introduction of the so-called new eGK has that the social court Berlin has already dismissed. Without the transmission of personal data and a photo, the health insurance company could not create his card and there is no obligation on the physician to undergo medical treatment without this card. The plaintiff allegedly had to accept the "interference in the right to informational self-determination," it was said in the court's explanatory statement.

Announced in 2003 by the then Minister of Health Ulla Schmidt introduction to the year 2006 came not only with doctors on strong criticism. The opponents argued that with the introduction of another step on the way to „glassy citizens“ and privacy policy would be overridden. For years there was disagreement over technical and organizational standards. Concerned patients must not fear any violation of their privacy rights as a result of using the new card. An extension of the technical use of the new cards should be permitted by law only with the consent of the insured, the judges said. (Fr)