Telematics infrastructure for the healthcare sector

The telematics infrastructure (TI) is the secure network specified by gematik for the German healthcare system. It connects service providers with each other and, for example, with cost bearers and enables standardized exchange of medical data. The TI supports applications such as the electronic patient file (ePA), the ePrescription, or communication in medicine (KIM), which support digital and networked care.¹

With TI Connect, the TI connection is no longer established via the connector and access service, as was previously the case, but via the TI gateway. This in turn consists of the high-speed connector and an access module. This simplifies operation, maintenance and updates. At the same time, organizations benefit from higher availability and better scalability.

The TI gateway replaces the TI connection, which is tied to physical, local connectors. This eliminates the need for on-site hardware operation and maintenance. At the same time, the gateway enables greater reliability, centralized updates and better scaling – especially for complex IT structures in clinics and health insurance companies.

The connection to the telematics infrastructure – often also referred to as "telematics infrastructure connection" – is made either using local connectors or the TI gateway. While connectors are operated decentrally, the TI gateway enables a central, highly available and scalable connection via secure data centers. The prerequisites are gematik-compliant processes, secure identities and integration into existing IT systems. For larger organizations, the TI gateway is the future-proof solution.

Central digital applications are provided via the telematics infrastructure, including the electronic patient file (ePA), the ePrescription, and communication in medicine (KIM). Other applications such as the electronic medication plan or the TI Messenger enable secure exchange and use of medical data between the various players in the healthcare system.

Use of the telematics infrastructure is subject to strict regulatory requirements. The requirements of gematik and legal regulations such as the GDPR are definitive. Organizations must ensure that data is processed securely, access is controlled, and all processes remain fully traceable and auditable.

Medical institutions receive a monthly TI flat rate from which they can finance the costs of the TI connection. Details on the structure of the TI flat rate are provided by the professional associations and the GKV-Spitzenverband.