Telemedicine in Germany: A Modern Approach to Remote Healthcare Telemedicine may still sound like a technology of the future. However, in Germany, it has already become an important and well-accepted part of the healthcare system. The term "telemedicine" refers to the use of information and communication technologies to provide medical services—regardless of distance.

Telemedicine is a broad concept that includes many different aspects. Generally speaking, any medical service delivered remotely without direct physical contact is considered telemedicine.

This innovative approach is particularly promising for improving healthcare access in underserved areas and in countries with limited medical infrastructure. Telemedicine also creates new opportunities for treating rare diseases by enabling patients to receive expert opinions from a distance.

Video Consultations

Just a few years ago, remote treatment was prohibited for German doctors. But in June 2018, changes in the professional code of conduct allowed physicians to carry out remote consultations. Today, video consultations are permitted, provided that safety measures and medical standards are followed.

Remote care cannot fully replace in-person visits between doctors and patients, but it can complement them. This is especially helpful in cases of:

  • a shortage of specialists

  • long distances between doctor and patient

  • limited mobility or chronic conditions

Second Opinion Portals

Several online platforms now offer paid medical second opinions. The process is usually simple: you upload or mail your medical records and complete a questionnaire. A specialist then reviews your case and provides recommendations for further treatment.

A successful example is AskGermanDoc.com, which offers second medical opinions from leading German doctors to patients outside of Germany.

Video Conferences & Teleconsultations Between Doctors

Telemedicine also includes doctor-to-doctor consultations via video. A common use case is national stroke networks in Germany, where neurological clinics provide real-time guidance to remote hospitals.

For example:

  • A connected neurologist can access CT scans

  • They support local doctors with diagnosis and treatment planning

  • Everything happens in real-time via a secure video connection

Telemonitoring of Chronic Patients

Another important area of telemedicine is telemonitoring, especially for patients with chronic conditions such as heart failure. These patients are continuously monitored—even at home.

This works through:

  • Mobile monitoring devices

  • Secure electronic transmission of vital signs

  • Immediate alerts in case of health deterioration

This approach allows doctors to react quickly and prevent hospitalizations or complications.

The Future of Digital Healthcare

Telemedicine offers vast potential and is already improving healthcare quality significantly. Thanks to modern technology, medical services can now be accessed regardless of location or specialist availability. This is particularly valuable in:

  • regions with weak healthcare infrastructure

  • rare diseases requiring expert evaluation

The future of healthcare is unimaginable without telemedicine. It makes care more accessible and reduces the risk of medical errors. Whether for second opinions, home monitoring, or remote diagnosis—telemedicine is here to stay.