The comprehensive digitalisation of the Public Health Service (ÖGD) is no longer negotiable - it is overdue. Why? Here are the key points:
1️⃣ Efficiency and speed instead of bureaucracy:
Connection to the telematics infrastructure (TI) must be fast and targeted. Delays caused by bureaucratic hurdles are unacceptable, because every delay costs valuable time - and in the worst case, human lives.
2️⃣ Interoperability and data protection:
Digital solutions in the healthcare sector must work together perfectly to ensure a smooth exchange between practices, clinics and health authorities. At the same time, maximising the protection of sensitive healthcare data remains a key obligation.
3️⃣ Ongoing optimisation:
Digitalisation is not a one-off project. The connection must be regularly evaluated, adapted and further developed in order to be prepared for future pandemics or crises.
4️⃣ Practical support from gematik:
With the publication of the checklist for the TI connection of the ÖGD and further information, e.g. on the issue of institution cards (SMC-B), gematik provides health authorities with practical tools to accelerate the digital transformation.
5️⃣ Shared responsibility:
The Interop Council, together with the KIG, could play a decisive role in the standardisation and development of digital solutions in future. Recommendations, positions and expertise must be more closely integrated.
❗ The consequences of inaction
Without nationwide digitalisation, the ÖGD will remain an inefficient relic of the past. We risk once again being unprepared for the next crisis - with considerable social and economic damage.
💡 Conclusion:
There are no more excuses. The digital transformation of the ÖGD is long overdue. The first steps have been taken - but we must continue with determination. Any further delay is irresponsible.
