Brandenburg's Health Minister Pushes for 'Luxury Polyclinics' to Tackle Doctor Shortage
Brandenburg's health minister Britta Müller (BSW) is pushing for polyclinics as a solution to the state's doctor shortage. Müller, who sees medical supply centers as an alternative to hospitals, expects them to offer short referral distances, multiple specialties, and improved appointment scheduling. She aims to create 'luxury polyclinics' where various diagnostic procedures and minor surgeries can be performed.
The move comes as Brandenburg faces a significant GP shortage, with 320 unfilled positions. Patients in areas like Jüterbog, Rathenow, Schönefeld, Wildau, and Schwedt/Oder are particularly affected, with waiting times for specialist appointments stretching up to a year. Müller is focusing on rural areas, where additional medical practices and polyclinics are needed to address these gaps. She plans to make these locations attractive for doctors by employing them as salaried employees and reducing administrative burdens.
Specialist shortages are also evident, with ear-nose-throat doctors needed in Prignitz, Elbe-Elster, and Oberspreewald-Lausitz districts, and dermatologists required in Märkisch-Oderland and Oberspreewald-Lausitz. Müller criticizes the AfD for spreading fear about the health system's capabilities, emphasizing her commitment to ensuring necessary care.
Müller's polyclinic initiative aims to tackle Brandenburg's doctor shortage, particularly in rural areas. By offering comprehensive care and attractive working conditions, she hopes to recruit and retain doctors, ultimately improving healthcare access for Brandenburg residents.
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