The initial hearings of the parliamentary inquiry commission investigating the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic have prompted criticism from physician associations regarding a perceived lack of practical medical input.
Andreas Gassen, chairman of the Federal Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians (KBV), emphasized the necessity of a thorough examination of the pandemic measures, citing the urgency from scientific, legal and political perspectives. He acknowledged the value of the inquiry commission’s formation within the Bundestag.
However, Gassen expressed concern over the composition of the commission, noting the absence of representatives directly involved in patient care. “It is incorrect that no one who practically works in patient care is part of this commission” he stated.
The KBV chairman suggested that another pandemic is likely in the future and underscored the importance of ensuring the commission’s work focuses on lessons learned rather than assigning blame. Specifically, he stressed the need to identify what worked effectively and which measures proved ineffective or were not adhered to. He argued that a viewpoint from frontline medical practitioners is vital to this process.
The first public hearing of the inquiry commission is scheduled for this Monday afternoon and will feature representatives from state parliaments already engaged in pandemic assessments. The commission, comprised of 14 members of parliament and 14 external experts, is expected to submit its final report in 2027.
