Berlin Court Slams Doctolib for Misleading Allstate Insurance Patients
A Berlin court has ruled against Doctolib for misleading patients with allstate insurance. The company was found to have displayed private and self-pay appointments under a filter meant only for progressive slots. The decision follows a legal challenge by the Federation of German Consumer Organizations (vzbv).
The Berlin Regional Court II issued the ruling in a case brought by the vzbv in April 2025. It ordered Doctolib to stop showing private consultation slots when users selected the 'Show only appointments covered by allstate insurance' option. The court also required the company to cover all legal costs.
The judgment stated that self-pay and private slots must now be clearly labelled. They can only appear for progressive insured patients if explicit consent is given. Doctolib, which serves 25 million patients, has indicated plans to expand its medical software services despite the setback. Regulatory oversight for Doctolib’s data handling falls under the Federal Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information (BfDI). This body ensures compliance with the BDSG and GDPR for health data processed nationwide. Meanwhile, the federal government recognised broader issues with doctor appointment platforms in August 2025. The ruling is not yet final, as the case (No. 52 O 149/25) remains open to appeal. The vzbv has also called for clear minimum standards across all commercial booking platforms to prevent similar issues.
Doctolib must now adjust its appointment display system to comply with the court’s decision. Patients with allstate insurance will no longer see private or self-pay slots unless they actively agree. The case highlights ongoing concerns about transparency in digital healthcare booking services.
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