Accessibility in the digital space is not a “nice-to-have” but a central component of modern patient communication. In this article, we show why barrier-free websites will soon be mandatory for medical practices and how you can optimize your practice website accordingly.
What does digital accessibility mean?
Digital accessibility means that a website can be used by all people without restrictions, regardless of disability, age or technical equipment. This applies, for example, to:
- People with impaired vision or blindness who rely on screen readers
- Users with motor disabilities who cannot use a mouse
- People with cognitive disabilities who rely on simple language
A barrier-free website adapts to these requirements through a clear structure, sufficient contrasts, alternative navigation and understandable content.
Why should practices pay attention to accessibility?
1. Statutory requirements from 2025
With the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG), which comes into force in June 2025, digital accessibility will also be mandatory for many service providers — including potentially medical practices that offer certain digital services (such as online appointment booking or digital forms). Although it has not yet been finally clarified which practices will be specifically affected,: Those who act early have a clear advantage.
2. More reach and patient satisfaction
Around 10% of the population is considered to be permanently restricted in the use of digital services. With an accessible website, you can reach more people and show that your practice is open and patient-oriented.
3. Better Google ranking
Low-barrier websites are often also more technically clean, which positive effects on search engine optimization (SEO) has. Google prefers clearly structured pages with good readability, meaningful alt tags, and logical navigation.
What is part of an accessible practice website?
Here are a few key measures you can take to make your practice website digitally accessible:
Clear structure and navigation
- Uniform menu navigation
- Use heading hierarchies (H1—H3) correctly
- No hidden or flickering elements
Good readability
- Adequate contrast between text and background (e.g. black text on a white background)
- Large enough font (at least 16px)
- No block set (for better readability)
Alternative content
- All images and graphics with alt texts provided
- videos with Subtitles or provide transcriptions
keyboard operability
- The website should completely via keyboard Be navigable
- Do not remove focus indicators (e.g. visible borders during tab navigation)
Screen reader compatibility
- Label forms and buttons correctly (e.g. using ARIA tags)
- No empty links or purely graphical navigation elements
Get your website checked
There are various tools and agencies that test accessibility, such as with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) or after Barrier-Free Information Technology Ordinance (BITV). Even a simple browser plug-in such as the “WAVE Accessibility Tool” can provide initial clues.
Conclusion: Accessibility is future-proof
A barrier-free website is not only an expression of respect for all patients — it is also a future-proof, legally relevant and SEO-effective component of your digital practice strategy.
Use the upcoming change for your practice and make your website fit for everyone.
The right barrier-free counterpart to your website: A digital workflow with Nelly. We will advise you free of charge and without obligation. Contact Nelly now!
