Despite the increasing number of doctors in the country, the German Association of General Practitioners (Hausärztinnen- und Hausärzteverband) warns that the shortage of outpatient care could worsen.
Last year more physicians worked in salaried positions and part‑time. In a statement to the Friday editions of the Funke Media Group, Chairperson Markus Beier said: “This is a trend we have been warning about for years. Interest among medical students in general practice is growing, but it is still not enough to fill the gaps that rise alongside the increase in part‑time work”.
Beier emphasized that solutions are already available. “Expanding teamwork consistently within practices would free doctors from a large share of tasks” he noted, citing studies that confirm the benefit. He dismissed the current cost‑cutting fantasies of health insurers, which he described as “absurd” in the light of planned savings reforms.
He warned that if primary‑care services are not fully reimbursed, very few young doctors will choose the profession. As a result, more practices will have to close prematurely in certain regions. “Those who advocate for the abolition of de‑budgeting for general‑practice and paediatric care are essentially allowing the situation to deteriorate further” Beier said. He compared the potential wait times to those already experienced in specialist care, stressing that patients could be left on hold for months.
For those who do not want to see this happen, Beier urged, “step back from de‑budgeting general‑practice clinics”.
