The Association of General Practitioners holds high hopes for the incoming Minister of Health, Carsten Linnemann (CDU), given the changes occurring within the Federal Ministry of Health. The association’s federal chairwoman, Nicola Buhlinger-Göpfarth, told media outlets that one of the central reform projects for the coming years-the transition toward a primary care system-will fall under his purview. Buhlinger-Göpfarth noted that Linnemann is known “as an experienced manager of complex political processes” and has a history of advocating for necessary structural reforms while always considering the need to involve the public throughout that process. These very skills, she argued, would be essential for the successful execution of the pending healthcare reforms.
The general practitioners want to intensify their “open and constructive dialogue” with the designated minister. Buhlinger-Göpfarth stressed that the general practitioners will play a “pivotal role” in implementing the primary care reform. She affirmed that the association is ready to serve Linnemann and his ministry “at any time as a reliable partner” in its interest representation capacity.
Furthermore, the association voiced its support for expanding the practice of General Practitioner-Centered Care (HZV) as part of the reform. They had consistently welcomed both the government’s coalition agreement and the outgoing Health Minister, Nina Warken, placing reliance on HZV as the only existing primary care system. “For us, the question of how HZV can be further strengthened within the implementation framework is of particular importance,” said Buhlinger-Göpfarth. The association maintains a strong belief that Linnemann, like his predecessor, is committed to the coalition agreement and will pursue this path consistently.
Finally, the head of the association thanked the outgoing Health Minister, Nina Warken. Buhlinger-Göpfarth stated, “We thank Nina Warken for the cooperation over the last year and a half and for the work she accomplished during difficult times.” She wished her great success as the head of the Chancellor’s Office.
