One in five patients in Germany has received a prescription for a digital health application, though actual usage lags far behind the rate of prescriptions, according to data published by the digital association Bitkom. While 20 percent of people have been prescribed a medical app for conditions like back pain or depression, only 15 percent have actually redeemed the prescription.
Bitkom Survey Reveals Gap Between Prescriptions and Patient Use
The representative telephone survey conducted by Bitkom between late August and late September 2026 questioned 1,132 people aged 16 and older in Germany. While 56 percent of the population knows about these digital health applications, known as DiGA, uptake remains low. The research shows that 36 percent of respondents know about the digital offerings but have not received a prescription.
At the same time, patients see potential benefits in specific situations. The data indicates that 44 percent of respondents would use a health app to bridge a long wait time for a doctor or therapy appointment. One-third of participants view the software as a way to make daily management of their treatment easier.
Patients Demand More Guidance While Providers Face Economic Strain
Despite potential interest, clear barriers prevent widespread adoption. The Bitkom survey reveals that 41 percent of respondents believe a health app could not help them personally, while another 27 percent do not understand the utility of such applications. Consequently, 49 percent of participants want doctors and psychotherapists to provide more information about prescription apps.
Bernhard Rohleder, managing director of Bitkom, called for easier access, stating that the path from receiving a prescription to actually using the software should be simpler for patients.
App developers face their own set of challenges. In a separate Bitkom survey of 34 app manufacturers, 85 percent reported that their economic situation worsened over the past two years. Even with these financial pressures, half of the surveyed companies plan to launch new prescription apps within the next 24 months.
How the BfArM Fast-Track Approval Process Works
For an application to reach the market as a reimbursable prescription app, it must undergo evaluation by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM). Manufacturers have been able to submit applications for BfArM review since mid-May 2020.
During a three-month fast-track procedure, BfArM checks the manufacturer’s data. Eligible apps must carry a CE mark. Once approved and entered into the DiGA directory, statutory health insurance funds cover the costs for an initial trial phase lasting one year. During this period, developers must supply evidence that their software improves medical care.
If developers provide evidence of positive care effects, the app gains permanent listing in the directory. If they supply only indications of positive effects, the listing is extended provisionally for another 12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prescription Health Apps
How do patients redeem a digital health application prescription?
Patients insured by statutory health insurance must submit their doctor’s or psychotherapist’s prescription to their health fund. The insurance provider then issues a code that allows the patient to download and unlock the app free of charge.
What distinguishes approved DiGA apps from standard app store software?
Unlike the countless health applications available in commercial app stores that lack unified quality criteria or scientific vetting, DiGA apps listed by BfArM must meet strict standards. Approved prescription apps must be entirely free of advertising, protect personal data rigorously, and ensure their medical content aligns with recognized professional standards.