The introduction of the eDoklady mobile application, offering an electronic version of citizens’ IDs, has inadvertently triggered issues within the ePrescription system in the Czech Republic. Reports emerged of individuals encountering difficulties in obtaining prescription medication using their citizen’s ID due to challenges with personal identification in essential registries.

The State Institute for Drug Control (SÚKL) highlighted that accessing individuals’ data in essential registries became nearly impossible following the launch of the eDoklady mobile application. However, the Digital and Information Agency (DIA), responsible for managing the system, clarified that traditional identity verification methods with ePrescriptions remained unaffected by the introduction of eDoklady.

By late afternoon, SÚKL announced on its website that the issues with dispensing prescription drugs using a citizen’s ID had been largely resolved. Nevertheless, intermittent disruptions persisted during login attempts via Citizen’s Identity, as noted by SÚKL.

The eDoklady app, launched by the DIA over the weekend, aimed to provide citizens with an electronic alternative to their physical IDs. However, the system encountered significant strain due to the surge in users accessing Citizen’s Identity. Over the weekend, approximately 150,000 individuals downloaded the eDoklady app, exacerbating the strain on the eGovernment system.

David Slížek, editor-in-chief of the expert server Lupa, emphasized the critical role of Citizen’s Identity (NIA) in facilitating access to state services. He cautioned that the system might struggle to accommodate the escalating demand for digital services, risking potential instability. Slížek noted that such strains are particularly pronounced during the launch of new services, as witnessed with the rollout of the eDoklady application.

The disruption underscores the challenges inherent in transitioning to digital platforms and the importance of robust infrastructure to support increased demand for eGovernment services. As authorities work to address these teething issues, ensuring seamless access to essential services remains paramount to safeguarding public health and well-being.

Article by Prague Forum