Abstracts by key term: outpatient care
After more than 30 years of development, physician networks represent a promising approach to strengthening outpatient care in Germany. In light of growing supply bottlenecks, demographic change, and a growing need for interprofessional collaboration, they are increasingly becoming the focus of health policy. The resulting network structure is extremely heterogeneous, both in terms of structure, maturity, and actual effectiveness. This article analyzes the current state of development of physician networks in Germany, identifies key success factors, and explores their future potential. Using selected best-practice examples, it demonstrates the conditions under which physician networks can not only contribute to improving care but also function as economically viable business models. This provides concrete recommendations for action to further develop physician networks and establish them as a strategic management instrument in the healthcare system.
04.08.2025
In health care, the transitions between inpatient and outpatient sectors pose a particular challenge. From the patient's perspective, the definition of treatment paths and their ongoing optimization along clearly defined interfaces are of essential importance. Accordingly, improving intersectoral communication and collaboration is one of the key goals of many initiatives, measures and associations. In the Baltic Sea Coast health region, HICARE1 – Action Alliance against Multi-Resistant Pathogens (MRE) – aims to implement model regional concepts and support them with health services research. From the perspective of practicing physicians*, this article aims to present challenges and perspectives in the transition of patients with colonization or infection with MRE between sectors. Suggestions for this were given by established colleagues* in the region.