AOK launches online patient trainer in Germany

The health insurance provider AOK has introduced a new digital program called the ‘Patienten-Trainer’ (Patient Trainer) to assist residents in the Märkischer Kreis and Ostholstein regions of Germany. The online initiative aims to improve health literacy and patient self-efficacy by teaching effective communication strategies for medical consultations.

The program addresses the common difficulty patients face when attempting to clearly articulate concerns or ask essential questions during appointments. To facilitate better doctor-patient interactions, the trainer provides four video tutorials featuring practical case studies, such as managing time constraints during visits and formulating requests clearly.

Additional resources included in the digital offering are a printable checklist for preparing and reviewing medical appointments, video statements from physicians, and a self-test designed to provide personalized advice for improving future consultations.