Automated and Mandatory IfSG-Compliant Reports Starting in April 2026
Starting in April 2026, the following will apply: Only laboratories that have correctly updated their master data to match the official code lists will be able to continue submitting reports via DEMIS. Without this update, reports will result in an error in the future.
👉 The DORNER DEMIS interface helps you make the transition on time, provides ongoing updates to the code lists, and ensures that you meet your legal reporting obligations under the IfSG.
Get your lab ready for the new DEMIS requirements now!
Important: New IfSG reporting requirements effective immediately and in 2026
1. Reporting Negative SARS-CoV-2 PCR Results
- According to Section 7(4) of the IfSG, laboratories are required to report negative SARS-CoV-2 PCR results to the RKI as well.
- This feature is already built into the new version of DEMIS.
- The transmission takes effect automatically if there is a negative result based solely on at least one PCR test.
2. Stricter compliance requirements starting in April 2026—the deadline!
- Official code lists (LOINC, SNOMED) have been available for DEMIS messages since the beginning.
- Until now, there have been no penalties for laboratories that used different codes.
- Starting in April 2026, only laboratories with correctly updated master data will be able to submit reports.
- The update ensures that only the permitted codes can be selected.
- If the master data is not updated, notifications will result in an error status.
New Features of the DORNER DEMIS Interface
Our interface is constantly evolving—with the latest versions, you’ll benefit from practical features:
- Automatic Master Data Check: Errors in the DEMIS master data can be checked immediately with the click of a button—without having to go through monthly error reports.
- Code lists directly in the mapping: Only the codes approved for the respective reporting event are displayed—no Excel lists are needed.
- Advanced Parameters: Allows for the transmission of additional information, such as CT values or molecular resistance testing results.
- Compact Reports: Just one report per reporting event and order/day number—all results clearly presented in a single document.
- Intelligent Task Management: If a new reportable parameter is detected in an order, the interface automatically updates the existing report.
- Quantitative results: Numerical values can also be transferred without any problems.
- Daily error reports: Automatic reports via email upon request—without the need for constant monitoring.
Benefits for Your Lab
- Future-proof: Ensure you reliably comply with the DEMIS requirements that take effect in April 2026.
- Compliant with the law: Covers all relevant IfSG reporting requirements (including negative PCR test results).
- Time savings: Automated workflows instead of manual processes.
- Error Reduction: Input errors and incorrect codes are prevented.
- Security: Encrypted transmission via HL7/FHIR and HTTPS.
- Flexibility: Easy integration into the laboratory information system (LIS).
Integration with the Laboratory Information System (LIS)
Our DEMIS interface is based on the HL7/FHIR standard and offers:
- Secure transmission in XML format via RESTful web services.
- Standardized authentication and authorization.
- Seamless LIS integration for common systems.
- Real-time updates straight from the lab.
Contact us now for a no obligation quote!
HL7 / FHIR - Solid, technical basis
Our DEMIS interface is based on the international HL7/FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) standard. This enables us to meet the highest standards for interoperability and security in the healthcare sector.
- Real-time transmission of report data from the Laboratory Information System (LIS) to DEMIS.
- XML format & RESTful web services (HTTPS) for secure and standardized communication.
- FHIR resources and profiles define exactly which data must be transmitted.
- Secure authentication and authorization ensure that only authorized individuals have access.
- Background automation: Reports are reliably generated, transmitted, and documented in the task management system.
👉 Contact us to learn more about the technical details.
What is DEMIS?
The German Electronic Reporting and Information System for Infection Control (DEMIS) is an information system developed and operated by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI).
DEMIS Objectives:
- Standardized electronic reporting channels for data relevant to infection control.
- Faster and more efficient processing of reports at public health departments.
- Seamless integration with existing systems such as laboratory information systems (LIS), electronic health records, and other public health systems.
For more information:
FAQ on the DEMIS Interface
General Information & Responsibilities
What happens if I haven't migrated my master data by April 2026?
Starting in April 2026, only laboratories with correctly updated master data will be able to submit reports to DEMIS (the report format and code lists (LOINC, SNOMED) have been updated). If you do not make the necessary adjustments, your reports will be flagged as errors. This update is mandatory to remain compliant with the law beyond this deadline.
Which reports are now required?
Since the release of the new DEMIS version, negative SARS-CoV-2 PCR test results must also be reported via the DEMIS interface in accordance with Section 7(4) of the IfSG. This feature is triggered automatically when a report containing only negative results is generated based on at least one PCR test.
Can negative results also be transmitted via the interface?
Generally speaking, no. The lifecycle of a DEMIS report always begins with a positive report.
👉 Exception: the negative SARS-CoV-2 report (Section 7(4) of the IfSG), which is supported by a special profile. Furthermore, it is also possible to report negative partial results within positive test results.
Can anonymous reports pursuant to Section 7(3) of the IfSG also be submitted via the DEMIS interface?
Unfortunately, not at this time. Although we have long supported the technical implementation, the DEMIS office has not yet provided an FHIR profile for anonymous reports.
As soon as this profile is available, we will update our interface immediately.
👉 Note: This also applies to anonymous positive COVID-19 test results under Section 7(4) of the IfSG.
How much does the DEMIS interface cost?
Costs vary depending on the size of the lab, the complexity of integration, and the scope of functionality. Based on our experience, they are comparable to those of other health IT interfaces. We would be happy to provide you with a customized quote.
Technology & Integration
Do I still need Excel spreadsheets for code maintenance?
No. The interface now displays only the codes that are permitted in each case. It is no longer necessary to use separate Excel lists.
How can I check my master data?
Our interface features a built-in validation button. This provides you with immediate feedback on your DEMIS master data—without having to wait for the monthly error report.
How are antibiotic susceptibility test results sent?
For transmission, all resistance test results must be converted to valid LOINC codes. There is a separate master data screen for this purpose. If this screen is not yet available in your system, you will need to update your interface version.
Can our specific workflow be implemented via the interface?
Yes. Using a customization class, the interface's basic functions can be flexibly adapted. This makes it possible to map even specialized laboratory workflows.
Can CT values still be transmitted?
Yes. In version 3 of the interface, CT values can be configured directly as additional results in the master data. They are automatically included in the reports—without any additional development effort.
Can references be submitted for an existing report from a primary laboratory?
Yes, starting with Version 3, a module is available that allows you to maintain and submit references for each order and reporting event.
According to an email from DEMIS, our reports still contain errors regarding the stricter profiles. What should we do?
All emails sent by DEMIS regarding stricter profiling use the same text:“Our analyses show that there are still errors in your reports.”
This is the case even if all requirements have already been correctly implemented. To determine whether there are indeed still errors in your reports, please read the PDF file sent with the email.
There, under the heading “Analysis of Incorrect Parameter Entries,” you will find the entries that still need to be corrected, as well as a table listing the items that have already been submitted correctly.
If there are still any incorrect entries, please contact us as soon as possible.
Special Cases & Special Announcements
Can incorrect reports be corrected retroactively?
Yes, but only in coordination with the relevant public health department. You’ll find all the contact information on the confirmation of registration. A report can be uniquely identified using the “Report ID.”
Can information about the station be transmitted in addition to the sender's information?
Yes. Information about the station is transmitted via a configuration, provided that this data is available.
Who is required to report the results when the sample is sent to a secondary laboratory?
The laboratory that performs the actual diagnostic testing is always required to report the results.