Data protectionist sues Helsana over health app
The "Helsana+" app violates users' data privacy, finds the Federal Data Protection Commissioner. The court is now to decide.
How the Switzerland at the weekend writes in its current issue, consent must be given when the app is installed for the supplementary insurance company to check whether the person concerned has basic insurance with the Helsana Group.
The transfer of data from the basic to the supplementary insurance is illegal - there is no legal basis for this and the consent is therefore invalid, the data protection officer finds. He is also annoyed by the fact that Helsana basic insurance policyholders receive part of their basic insurance premium back - here, too, there is no legal basis. The data protection officer has therefore filed a complaint with the Federal Administrative Court.
The app is designed to encourage users to adopt health-conscious behavior. Helsana customers collect points, which they can exchange for cash payments and partner offers.
Helsana views the legal situation differently, but intends to adhere to the recommendations of the Federal Data Protection Commissioner until a court decision is reached.
The Foundation for Consumer Protection also has its difficulties with the Helsana+ program and recommends doing without it or limiting it to supplementary insurance. In general, consumers should be cautious and reserved when apps and discount programs transmit health data to health insurers, the foundation warns. (hae)
