Question of the Month: How Do I Use a Swiss E-Prescription with Compassana?

Still carrying around a paper prescription, keeping it safe and then trying to find it again when you next visit the pharmacy? There is an easier way. With the Swiss E-Prescription, doctors can issue prescriptions digitally, while Compassana lets you keep your e-prescription right on your smartphone.

The Swiss E-Prescription Explained

The Swiss E-Prescription is the digital version of a conventional prescription. It was developed by FMH and pharmaSuisse, while the associated e-prescription service is provided by HIN.

What sets it apart is the QR code containing the prescription information and a digital signature. This allows you to verify that the prescription is authentic and has remained unchanged since it was issued.

The redemption status is also recorded digitally. This allows a pharmacy to see whether a prescription is still valid and whether it has not yet been redeemed, has been partially redeemed or has already been redeemed in full. This prevents a prescription from being used more than once without authorisation.

Not Every Prescription QR Code Is a Swiss E-Prescription

Electronic prescriptions currently use different QR codes. These may contain, for example, information about medicines or prescription details.

However, a QR code alone does not mean that it is a Swiss E-Prescription. The Swiss E-Prescription also includes a digital signature and can be verified via the Swiss E-Prescription service.

Not sure what type of prescription you've received? Simply scan the QR code with the Compassana app. Compassana will recognise whether it is a Swiss E-Prescription.

How to Add Your E-Prescription to Compassana

There are three ways to add a Swiss E-Prescription to Compassana:

• Scan the QR code: Open the relevant feature in Compassana and scan the QR code on your e-prescription.  
• Upload the e-prescription: If you already have the prescription on your smartphone, you can upload it directly to Compassana.  
• Receive it securely: Your doctor or another healthcare professional can send the e-prescription to you directly via a secure HIN message.  

Compassana then displays the medicines and prescription information contained in the e-prescription in a clear, structured format.

This means you no longer have to keep track of individual documents or screenshots. Instead, your prescription is stored in the same place where you manage your other health information.

Redeeming Your E-Prescription at the Pharmacy

You can also redeem your e-prescription directly from your smartphone. Open your e-prescription in Compassana and show the QR code in the app at the pharmacy. The pharmacy scans the code, verifies the prescription and can dispense the prescribed medicines.

If your health insurance card number is stored in Compassana, the app will also display the relevant barcode. This means you have the information readily available when you need it at the pharmacy.

Both single prescriptions and repeat prescriptions can be issued as Swiss E-Prescriptions.

Data Protection with the Swiss E-Prescription

You remain in control of your prescription with the Swiss E-Prescription. You can store it digitally or carry a printed copy with you and redeem it at a participating pharmacy.

It is important to note that confidential patient and prescription data are not stored centrally in the Swiss E-Prescription service. The central service primarily manages the information required to verify the digital signature and redemption status.

The prescription information itself is contained in the e-prescription or its QR code and is not stored centrally.