Why you should think about your emergency medical data now
Imagine this: You experience an acute medical emergency – for example, an accident or a sudden loss of consciousness – and you're unable to provide information about your health. In moments like these, the so-called emergency data set (NFDM), stored on your electronic health card (eGK), can save lives.
What’s behind the emergency data set?
The emergency data set was introduced to give medical professionals quick and structured access to essential health information in critical situations. It includes key medical details such as chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases), known drug allergies, regularly taken medications, pregnancy status, implanted medical devices such as pacemakers, and contact information for your treating physicians or emergency contacts. Additional notes can indicate the existence of advance directives, healthcare proxies, or organ donor cards.
With your explicit consent, this information can be stored directly on your electronic health card. In emergencies, doctors, psychotherapists, and emergency responders are permitted to access these records – even if you're unconscious. The data is organized in a way that helps prevent treatment errors and enables life-saving decisions to be made more quickly (in accordance with § 291a SGB V).
Who should consider having an emergency data set?
Not everyone needs an emergency data set. It is especially beneficial for people with:
- Chronic illnesses or regular medication use
- Drug allergies or intolerances
- Special medical conditions (e.g., implants, pregnancy)
- Higher risk of emergencies (e.g., older patients)
If you're unsure whether this applies to you: talk to your GP and ask directly about it.
How is the emergency data set created?
The data set is created by your general practitioner. First, you’ll be informed about the purpose and content of the NFDM, and your consent will be documented. Then, all relevant medical information will be compiled, electronically signed, and securely stored on your electronic health card. If desired, this information can also be saved in your electronic patient record (ePA). Updates – for example, new medications, the end of a pregnancy, or a new diagnosis – can be made at any time. You can also request a full deletion of your emergency data at any time.
IMPORTANT: Creating or updating emergency data is only possible while your electronic health card is in the card reader and your PIN has been entered. Please make sure you bring both with you.
The emergency data set is voluntary, but a very useful tool. For people with pre-existing conditions, medication plans, or other health risks, it can be life-saving in an emergency. Talk to us at your next visit to your avi GP practice – and ensure all critical information is readily available when it matters most.
Literature
- Bundesärztekammer. (2022, 21. Juni). Notfalldaten retten Leben – Speicherung von Informationen auf der elektronischen Gesundheitskarte bekannter machen. https://www.bundesaerztekammer.de/presse/aktuelles/detail/notfalldaten-retten-lebe
- Stiftung Gesundheitswissen. (n.d.). Elektronische Patientenakte (ePA): Wie sie funktioniert und was sie bringt. https://www.stiftung-gesundheitswissen.de/gesundes-leben/e-health-trends/elektronische-patientenakte
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