Cyprus’s health system is developing a QR code system for prescriptions after patients complained they are forced to disclose personal information in crowded pharmacies and waiting rooms.
One patient last month asked the Personal Data Protection Commissioner to investigate, warning that strangers could overhear names, identity numbers and dates of birth in public spaces and use the information for electronic crimes with “unpredictable consequences”.
The Patient Rights Observatory has recorded similar complaints since the general health scheme launched, prompting the Health Insurance Organisation to develop digital alternatives.
The organisation is introducing barcodes or QR codes on prescriptions that pharmacists can scan to access and dispense medication without patients verbally disclosing personal details.
The system is nearly complete and will be available through the existing Beneficiary Portal, though patients must first activate their electronic health files.
HIO IT Director Marios Tziakouris said patients can already avoid verbal disclosure by presenting their identity card, which contains all necessary information.
“At this moment we are processing three different methods, one of which is at an advanced stage for implementation,” he said.
Initially, each QR code will link to a single prescription, requiring multiple scans for patients collecting several medications.
The organisation is also working with the Deputy Ministry of Innovation to integrate the Digital Citizen identity system, which would give pharmacists automatic access to all open prescriptions, though this will take longer to implement.
A separate mobile app is being developed by the National eHealth Committee that will allow patients and providers to access prescriptions and other health information digitally.
Tziakouris emphasised the digital options will not replace current practices, as some patients cannot operate technology easily. Prescription collection using identity cards will remain available, and pharmacists must continue verifying patient identity regardless of the method used.