Satisfaction with the health system: a clear wake -up call for reforms

Satisfaction with the health system: a clear wake -up call for reforms

A current survey shows that only a little more than half of the Austrian population (51 percent) is satisfied with the health system, while 15 percent state that they are not satisfied. According to the health expert Raml, this is a slightly positive development compared to the previous year, but the respondents recognize a growing "two -class system". Especially in mental health care, younger people in particular demand improvements.

The survey is an immediate indication of the opinions of citizens about the quality of medical care. Raml emphasizes that it is not only about faster appointments, but also about the different quality standards that users perceive. A central need is the shortening of the waiting times and ensuring reliable care in the entire health system.

demands for more provision and doctors

Medical Association Vice President Naghme Kamaleyan smithy expressed concerns about a “downward spiral” in the health system and emphasized the need for an investment in prevention. It makes it clear that it is not just a matter of financial resources, but that preventive measures can also reduce the suffering of patients. This is particularly important in view of the increase in obesity in children and adolescents.

Another point that is addressed in the survey is the lack of doctors. In order to pave the way for the urgently needed doctors, Kamaleyan smith demands a fair payment. It shows itself "frightened" that a better supply quality depends on the financial means; This raises questions about the appreciation of statutory health doctors compared to election doctors.

The spokeswoman for the working group of patient and nursing lawyers, Michaela Wlattnig, strengthens the appeal to the future government. It sees the basic stones laid out by the health reform as an opportunity to invest in health competence and prevention. She also criticized that new patients often have difficulty getting an appointment promptly, which leads to regional inequalities.

The survey has also brought to light positive aspects. Franziska Zehetmayr from Sandoz is happy about the great knowledge of the respondents about generics. This makes it optimistic that a higher use of generics not only relieves the health system, but also could bring considerable cost savings of up to 15 million euros per percentage point, as their calculations show.

Regarding domestic drug production, it is agreed in the "Austrian Health Report" that it is valuable for Austria. Zehetmayr demands more support from politics to improve the framework conditions so that local production can be maintained. In addition, people are willing to pay higher prices for locally produced medication, which indicates a positive attitude towards domestic industry.

For further information and a detailed consideration of the survey results, the complete data in the report on www.noen.at to be found.