Login/Create Account
Remote Medical Follow-up (Telemedizin) after Treatment in Germany: How Care Continues Legally and Professionally from Abroad
After completing treatment or surgery in Germany, many international patients return home while still requiring close medical follow-up with their German doctor. In such cases, Germany offers a modern telemedicine model ensuring secure and effective communication between patient and doctor online – within strict legal and regulatory frameworks.
What is Telemedizin?
-
Video consultations (Videosprechstunde)
-
Review of lab results and imaging via secure portals
-
Adjustment of treatment plans based on progress
-
Recommendations for follow-up or rehabilitation
Legal Framework:
-
§ 7 Abs. 4 MBO-Ä: Remote treatment allowed if prior knowledge of the case exists.
-
GDPR: Doctors must use secure portals for health data exchange.
-
Telematics Infrastructure: German secure system for medical information exchange, mandatory for telemedicine.
Requirements:
-
Existing doctor-patient relationship
-
Medical records available at the treating institution
-
Secure communication platforms (Doctolib, Jameda, RED medical)
-
Patient’s written consent
Process:
-
Schedule appointment online
-
Send updated reports and symptoms
-
Video consultation via licensed platform
-
Receive medical recommendations (tests, medication instructions)
-
Final follow-up report sent to patient or local doctor
Costs:
-
100–250 € per session
-
Payment via card, transfer, or invoice
-
Not covered by German insurance unless resident
Prescriptions:
-
No electronic prescriptions valid outside Germany
-
Doctor can issue a detailed medical report recommending medication
When not possible:
-
If physical examination is required
-
If no prior medical record exists with the doctor
-
If local laws do not recognize foreign diagnoses
Conclusion: Telemedicine is a modern, regulated solution enabling international patients to continue follow-up care with German quality standards, provided proper preparation and legal compliance.
