Medical Association President Warns: Germany Facing Imminent Shortage of Supplies
German Medical Association President Warns of Healthcare Supply Crisis
In a warning to politicians, the President of the German Medical Association, Klaus Reinhardt, has emphasized the urgent need for reforms to address inefficiencies and potential supply crises in the country's healthcare system. Reinhardt argued that swift action is necessary to avoid impairments in the medical network for patients.
Speaking about the inefficiencies, Reinhardt pointed out that Germany's healthcare system is characterized by high costs and intricate complexities. To improve steering in healthcare, he suggested that patients should register with a general practitioner's practice, which would then coordinate further treatment. This approach, he believes, would alleviate pressure on hospitals and enhance care continuity.
Reinhardt further underscored that the current system places a significant burden on patients, especially affecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly, chronically ill, and those with lower health literacy. In fact, Germany records one of the highest rates of doctor visits per capita worldwide, with an average of 9.6 visits per person per year.
Addressing the upcoming German Medical Assembly, Reinhardt noted that some measures outlined in the coalition agreement offer promising solutions. Specifically, plans by the Union and SPD to introduce a system where patients primarily visit a general practitioner's practice for referrals to specialists are seen as steps in the right direction. Reinhardt insisted that referral by general practitioners should not function as a gatekeeping mechanism but rather occur when specialist treatment is required or imminent.
Long-term, Reinhardt advocated for implementing the principle of "digital before outpatient before inpatient," which could involve initial digital consultations, followed by outpatient care, and, if necessary, further treatment in clinics.
Reinhardt highlighted that the population's aging and increasing medical needs call for comprehensive action. The dearth of specialists as older professionals retire, coupled with a lack of fresh talent, further complicated matters, he stated.
Note: The German Medical Association President's proposals focus on sustainable reforms, including strengthening outpatient care, reforming payment systems, expanding medical staff recruitment and retention, enhancing digital infrastructure, and promoting coordinated care models. These measures are designed to address workforce challenges, financial incentives, and care coordination, thereby mitigating the risks of supply crises and inefficiencies in the healthcare system.
[1] Source: ntv.de, rog/dpa
To address the healthcare supply crisis, the German Medical Association proposes implementing the principle of "digital before outpatient before inpatient," which may include initial digital consultations, followed by outpatient care, and, if necessary, further treatment in clinics. As part of these reforms, patients are suggested to register with a general practitioner's practice to improve steering in healthcare, alleviate pressure on hospitals, and promote care continuity. Additionally, vocational training programs could be initiated to encourage more individuals to pursue careers in medical fields, addressing the current dearth of specialists.
