Health crisis in Riesa: Association fights for the uninsured!

Health crisis in Riesa: Association fights for the uninsured!

Riesa.In Germany, going to the doctor is everyday and easy for most people. But for those who don't have health insurance, a health visit quickly becomes an expensive adventure. Despite the general health insurance requirement in force since 2009, according to the Federal Statistical Office, 61,000 people are still without insurance coverage in 2019. In Saxony, the number of those affected could be between 23,000 and 40,000, as reported by the Saxon Anonymous Treatment Certificate Association, which was founded in 2020.

The association is based in Riesa, in the former steelworker's clubhouse, and offers urgently needed advice for people without health insurance. “There is a nationwide need,” explains Sophie Pauligk, board member and coordinator of the advice center. While the supply points exist in large cities such as Chemnitz, Dresden or Leipzig, there is a lack of such offers in smaller cities. Riesa was therefore chosen as the location to offer help here too.

What does the club do specifically?

The association's mission is clear: to support people without health insurance in Saxony. The advisors help to clarify the reasons for the loss of insurance and provide support in filling out applications and other bureaucratic hurdles. The stories of those seeking help are diverse - many are homeless, mentally stressed or self-employed, but are in financial difficulties due to their age and increasing contributions.

Pauligk emphasizes that the complicated responsibilities of the authorities often represent a major obstacle. The consultants take on the role of loud advocates and help those affected to take the first steps back into a secure healthcare system. An important goal is that everyone, regardless of their status, has access to medical care. The association is already well received and plans to further expand its offerings to help even more people.