Electronic patient record (EPR)
Electronic patient record (EPR) explained simply
The EPR is a digital folder containing health data. It facilitates collaboration between healthcare professionals, enabling better treatment.
What is an electronic patient record?
The electronic patient record (EPR) is a personal, digital collection of medical information such as laboratory reports, X-rays and medication lists. The EPR belongs to the patient. He or she determines which healthcare professionals may view the record.
What benefits does the EPR offer me?
The EPR avoids duplicate examinations and improves the quality of treatment. It gives doctors access to up-to-date data, which makes treatments safer – for example in the event of drug interactions. It also ensures important information is quickly available in the event of an emergency.
Is the EPR mandatory?
Use of the EPR is voluntary. You decide for yourself whether to open a record. You can also close the electronic patient record again at any time if desired. Hospitals, rehabilitation clinics and nursing homes are obliged to participate in the EPR. For doctors, pharmacists and physiotherapists established before 2022, use is voluntary.
For whom is the EPR suitable and for whom is it not?
The EPR is suitable for anyone in Switzerland. Healthy people without an acute illness can also open a patient record. If you’re not interested in digital administration, you don’t have to use the EPR.
How does the EPR work?
The EPR is managed via so-called master communities. It can be opened online there – via secure identification. Healthcare professionals upload medical documents. You decide what is saved and who may view your reports.
What data is stored in the EPR?
Typical content includes:
- Findings and diagnoses
- Medication lists
- Allergies
- Hospital reports
- Vaccinations
Is my data secure?
Yes, the EPR meets high data protection standards. Data is stored in encrypted form in Switzerland. The legal requirements are set out in the Federal Act on the electronic patient record.
Who has access to my data?
Only authorised specialists to whom you explicitly grant access. Every inspection is logged – so it remains traceable who has viewed which data and when. Authorities, employers and insurance companies do not have access to the data in the electronic patient record.