Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria Launch Unified Digital Ecosystem for Public Health Services

In a significant step toward digital modernization, the German states of Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria have signed a cooperation agreement to establish a unified digital ecosystem for the Public Health Service (ÖGD), termed EDÖ². This initiative aims to connect and modernize the numerous functions within the ÖGD, enhancing cross-state synergies and standardizing services across regions.

A centerpiece of this digital transformation is the planned citizen portal, which will facilitate secure digital communication between citizens and health authorities. This portal will enable functionalities such as document uploads, appointment scheduling, and access to health advisory services, simplifying interactions with health offices.

The application for Bavarian health offices will be based on Baden-Württemberg’s ÖGDigital framework, allowing both states to collaboratively develop and enhance the platform. The cooperation is open to other German federal states and municipalities to join, thereby avoiding redundant developments and fostering a coordinated software landscape.

According to Leonie Dirks, head of the Baden-Württemberg Ministry for Social Affairs, Health and Integration, the collaboration promises to accelerate networking among health authorities and implement uniform standards nationwide. Dr. Rainer Hutka from Bavaria’s Ministry for Health emphasized the vital role of a modernized ÖGD in public health protection.

The project enjoys financial backing from the European Union's NextGenerationEU fund, underscoring the EU's commitment to supporting digital infrastructure improvements. Planned features include a centralized requirements management system to keep the digital infrastructure current and adaptable, alongside diverse health service modules.