The ÖGK savings program from the point of view of the doctors, patients

In the next two years, funds are to flow into the ÖGK in a significant three -digit millions. “This should actually be done with this. We expect the ÖGK to immediately accept the fee negotiations that have been standing for months in the sense of optimal patient care,” said Edgar Wutscher, Vice President of the Austrian Chamber of Applied Sciences and Federal Chairman of the resident doctors, to the new government’s new budget path. As part of a press conference, he further stated that, in his view, it would require a “fundamental renewal”: “Without wanting to teach the ÖGK, we can bring in numerous suggestions at which points without strain on the patient can be saved,” he said. Structural improvements could be considered in up to 85 percent of the ÖGK budget. “Instead, doctors are encouraged to prescribe fewer MR/CTS and physiotherapy units,” criticized Wutscher. MRTs are, for example, diagnostic instruments for modern medicine, it is good that these options for diagnosis are also used: “The cost savings are low and do not pay off if the medical risk is taken at the same time to overlook something,” said Wutscher. Performance savings are particularly bitter if the potential for savings would basically exist – but in other places. As an example, Wutscher cited the breakdown of parallel structures, such as ÖGK-owned telemedic medicine offers and ÖGK-owned outpatients: “The apps such as” My SV “and” My ÖGK “are also parallel structures that do not offer added value,” he said.

Investment in prevention

Especially in economically weaker times, people need more achievements, not less. “We have to map medical advances in the services, in addition to a modern performance catalog, the services of the health insurance companies should be improved for the insured,” said Wutscher. He referred to the SVS, which – unlike the ÖGK – invested in prevention: “Of course, investing in prevention costs – but it brings savings in the system in the long term,” emphasized the general practitioner. Another investment is essential: that in the digital infrastructure: “This is the only way we can look after the patients much more comprehensively and this is the only way to avoid double examinations,” he said.

Integration of patient representatives

“Our goal is that all partners” sit down at a table “, with the will to find a solution,” said Angelika Widhalm, President of the Federal Association of Self -Help Austria (BVSHOO): “We expect the patients to be integrated here at eye level.” The optimal care of the patients in Austria must be secured and should not suffer: “It is important that it is no longer only about patients, but with patients,” said Widhalm: “We consider it urgently needed to” sit down at a table “. Together, at eye level, with mutual respect and responsibility and, above all, the willingness to focus on patients.