Digital health Apps on prescription – support with cancer
Apps on prescription are designed to support people with certain types of cancer. By providing selected information about the conditions and special exercises, they can help people deal with their condition and its consequences.
At a glance
- Digital health applications (DiGA) are health apps and web applications that are available on prescription.
- They can complement treatment for certain types of cancer.
- DiGA are available for breast and prostate cancer, for example.
- Most DiGA provide basic information about the cancer type.
- People can often input information, for example about the progression of the cancer or their treatment progress.
What are apps on prescription?
Digital health applications (DiGA) are also referred to as apps on prescription or healthcare apps. They are mobile apps or web applications that can be prescribed for medical purposes. Such apps can complement the treatment of certain cancers and help people deal with their cancer and its consequences.
Apps on prescription are available to complement the treatment of
All currently reimbursable apps available on prescription can be found in the DiGA directory compiled by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM).
How can an app complement breast cancer treatment?
There are various digital health applications (DiGA) designed to support breast cancer treatment. The apps can improve quality of life and alleviate the consequences of cancer, such as persistent fatigue.
The apps provide clear information about individual symptoms and practical tips as well as various instructions on how to practice certain movement exercises and mindfulness. As such, they support mental health and quality of life. The apps can also be used to document symptoms and access history logs.
How can DiGA provide support with prostate cancer?
A digital health application (DiGA) has been developed that is designed to support patients with prostate cancer before and after surgery. Such surgery can result in erectile dysfunction or urinary incontinence. The app is designed to alleviate these issues through special pelvic floor training.
The training comprises various exercises that are illustrated in videos. The app also includes relaxation exercises and tips on matters such as dealing with stress. It furthermore provides background information about the disease, everyday advice and the ability to document the progression of the cancer.
Which app on prescription is right for you?
Digital health applications (DiGA) can complement treatment for certain types of cancer. However, some patients may choose not to them for personal reasons. Whether a specific DiGA is suitable for you is best decided in consultation with a doctor or physiotherapist.
Access to a DiGA requires a prescription from a doctor or psychotherapist. Alternatively, people can directly apply for a DiGA via their health insurance. When doing so, they may need to submit a document that certifies their diagnosis to the insurance fund.
Important: private health insurance funds do not always cover the costs of a DiGA. The cost coverage depends on the health insurance fund and the selected tariff. If you have private health insurance, you should ideally contact your provider in advance to clarify whether costs can be covered.
If several DiGA are available for your condition, you can compare the content of the apps in the DiGA directory. You can then work with your therapist to determine which DiGA best suits you and needs.
Where can I find more information about apps on prescription?
If you have any questions about access to a DiGA or its approval, use or security, please read the introductory article Digital health applications (DiGA): apps on prescription.
Cancer can also lead to mental health problems such as depression or sleep disorders. DiGAs have also been developed for these types of issues. Further information can be found in the article Apps on prescription – support for mental health conditions.
- Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte. DiGA-Verzeichnis. Aufgerufen am 15.05.2025.
- Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte. Für DiGA-Nutzende. Aufgerufen am 15.05.2025.
- Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte. Wissenswertes zu DiGA. Aufgerufen am 15.05.2025.
- Verband der privaten Krankenversicherung e.V. (PKV). Digitale Gesundheitsanwendungen (DiGA). Aufgerufen am 15.05.2025.
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