Pediatric care in Bavaria is to be examined with the help of a study by the Julius Maximilians University in Würzburg. “Due to the supply situation, families are increasingly restricted in their choice of service providers and are not always able to see the pediatrician of their choice,” said Health Minister Judith Gerlach (CSU) on Sunday in Munich. “Especially in rural areas where only a few pediatricians practice, the resulting long travel and waiting times are an increasing burden for families.”
The new study, which Gerlach says the Free State is funding with 20,000 euros, is scheduled to start on February 1st. The Würzburg scientists focus on social, financial, personal and geographical factors. The question is whether the needs planning for pediatric care in Bavaria meets the needs of families in this country. “That means: Do the families have sufficient access to pediatricians and if not, why is that?” explained the Health Minister. Among other things, the scientists should research where practices are available, how families can reach them and how well they are informed about the respective offers. Mobility and acceptance should also be examined. Gerlach criticized that nationwide demand planning does not take these different accessibility into account.
Michael Hubmann, President of the professional association of pediatricians and adolescent doctors in Bavaria and a practicing pediatrician in Zirndorf in Central Franconia, welcomed the state government’s plan. “Maintaining comprehensive pediatric and adolescent medical care is of enormous social importance,” said the head of pediatricians. “The retirement of the baby boomers, excessive bureaucracy and permanent availability make it more difficult to find a successor in many practices.”