Huge gap in care: Vilshofen's pediatrician closes practice!

Huge gap in care: Vilshofen's pediatrician closes practice!

The situation in pediatric care in Vilshofen, Passau district, is becoming increasingly precarious. How PNP reported, the local pediatrician practice is run by Dipl.-Med. Ulrike Haun is expected to close at the end of 2023. To date, she has been unable to find a successor, which could lead to a serious gap in care in the city — hundreds of children could be left without medical care.

The failure to find a successor is not an isolated incident but reflects a nationwide challenge. Demographic changes and the fact that many pediatricians will soon be retiring are leading to a decline in the number of available successors. More and more young doctors are deciding against taking over a practice and preferring to work in clinics instead, which is making the situation even worse. According to a blog post by Actova Bureaucracy in practice management is one of the biggest hurdles that prevent potential successors from taking over. The complexity of the legal and administrative environment not only deters young doctors, but also makes transition planning difficult.

Succession and supply situation

Concerns about medical care have long been an issue in Vilshofen. The closure of the pediatrician's practice could further aggravate the already tense situation. Parents are therefore called upon to actively participate in the discussion about the future of pediatric care. Support and public relations are necessary steps to raise awareness of the need for succession planning.

In order to successfully master the change, various initiatives have been formed, including the pediatric practice exchange, which is run by Pediatric Exchange is operated. This platform aims to bring dispensing practices and young pediatricians together. The practices can be advertised on the platform so that interested doctors can contact them directly. Independent registrations are possible, and contact persons such as Angelika Riquelme are available to provide support.

Financial incentives and training as a solution

Another issue is the financial incentives for young doctors to take over a practice. Tax relief and funding programs could significantly increase the attractiveness of pediatrics. Political measures are needed to attract young medical students more to this profession. Medical associations and health organizations are also called upon to increase interest in pediatric practice through targeted networking and information events.

In summary, both the local community and the health organizations must work together on solutions so that medical care for Vilshofen's youngest citizens remains secure in the future. The challenges are great, but with commitment and the right measures there are opportunities to close the gap.