German Medical Association calls for urgent healthcare reforms

Klaus Reinhardt, President of the German Medical Association (BÄK), has called for urgent healthcare reforms as parliamentary sessions resume following the summer break. Reinhardt emphasized that the German healthcare system is at a critical turning point and that necessary reforms must no longer be postponed.

Key areas identified for immediate action include the reform of emergency care, the transition to a primary care system, the implementation and further development of hospital reforms, and a significant reduction in bureaucracy. Reinhardt also advocated for a restart in prevention policy, warning that certain budgetary changes to statutory health insurance could weaken preventative services.

Addressing the political landscape, Reinhardt noted that while the new Federal Health Minister faces significant challenges, the quality of medical care in Germany remains high and should not be undermined by populist rhetoric. Additionally, progress continues on the amendment of the Doctors' Fee Schedule (GOÄ), with expected cabinet submission by the end of the year.