Two decades of e-card: This is how she revolutionized health care in Austria

Two decades of e-card: This is how she revolutionized health care in Austria

On May 30, 2005, the nationwide shipping of the E-Card in Austria began, a crucial step to modernize the healthcare system in the country. The E-Card was established as the key to health care and enables insured persons access to various healthcare services. In December 2005, shipping to all health insured persons was completed, which marked a nationwide introduction of this technology. The first applications included chief medical permits and sick leave.

The e-card was originally introduced under the name "E-Card" at the end of 2001 after the first attempts were made in Burgenland. At the same time, the Austria-wide roll-out started, which also included the installation of reader in medical practices. The acceptance among the population was consistently positive, although medical representatives expressed concerns at the beginning.

functions and security features

Today, the E-Card not only serves as proof of health insurance coverage, but also enables access to the electronic health file (ELGA). The name, title and social security number of the cardholder as well as further contact information are printed on the front of the e-card. It is important that no medical data is stored on the E-Card, which underlines data protection. The back contains the European Health Insurance Card (EKVK), which is essential for trips abroad.

Over the years, further functions have been implemented to facilitate access to health services. In 2019, e-medication went into full operation and electronic medical regulations and transfers were established. An important security update took place in 2019 when a photo was taken on the e-card to prevent abuse. Since January 1, 2020, all newly issued or exchanged e-cards have had a photo for people aged 14 and over.

new developments and outlook

A remarkable aspect is the use of the "My SV app" as an e-card reader that has been available since the previous year. This development shows the progressive digitization in the health sector. In addition, insured persons have the opportunity to give doctors access to their electronic health records, which further drives telematics in healthcare.

Numerous innovations are planned for the future. Elga is to be expanded in the middle of 2025, which is connected to the mandatory transmission of findings by laboratories and radiologists. A service fee of 14.65 euros for 2026, which is due on November 15, 2025, is also to be valorized slightly annually. People who are economically needy can apply for exemption from this fee.

Finally, it can be said that the e-card has become a central element of the Austrian health system in the past two decades. Their continuous development and the large number of functions offered not only make access to medical services easier, but also increase efficiency in healthcare as a whole.