Germany: Healthcare

A European Patent Office Technical Board of Appeal decision examines when algorithmic features in medical monitoring systems can support inventive step claims. The case centers on a blood glucose variability measurement system where the technical effect depends critically on the observation period, raising fundamental questions about claim scope and technical contribution.

Headnote: The claimant’s legitimate interest in the publication of a decision (Art. 80 UPCA) may, depending on the circumstances of the individual case, follow from the fact that the defendant has marketed the attacked embodiment by explicitly referencing to the key technology protected by the patent

Effective service date for an unrepresented defendant who did not yet make an appearance in court is calculated under R. 271.6.b RoP, subject to the “unless” conditions of that rule.

Following the election in February, the party leaderships of CDU, CSU and SPD have agreed on a coalition agreement titled "Responsibility for Germany".

High sickness rates present significant challenges for employers. Previously, if employers had doubts about an employee's actual incapacity for work, they faced significant challenges due to the high probative value of the certificate of incapacity for work.

The regulatory frameworks in the life sciences and healthcare sector keep evolving rapidly and dynamically. Several important legislative reforms have been adopted...

Die Ausbreitung des Corona-Virus stellt Arbeitgeber und Beschäftigte weiterhin vor Herausforderungen. Eine Maßnahme zur besseren Eindämmung des Virus ist die Kontaktnachverfolgung, vor allem bei Publikums- und Kundenkontakt.

From 20 April 2021, employers in Germany have been required to offer COVID-19 tests to all employees who do not exclusively work from home.

Ein Impfstoff gegen Sars-CoV-2 (das „Corona-Virus") wird kommen – aller Voraussicht nach in absehbarer Zeit.