Restart for Patient Counseling in Germany After Six-Month Interruption

The Independent Patient Counselling Service of Germany (UPD) has resumed operations after a six-month hiatus and is once again offering advisory services. At the start, 40 professionals will be available for phone consultations, as announced by UPD board member Sven Arndt in Berlin. Patients can call the toll-free number 0800 011 77 22 to seek advice on the healthcare system, doctor's visits, and insurance matters. The UPD pledges to guide those seeking help through the complex healthcare system and suggest appropriate points of contact. From preparing for doctor's appointments to assisting with legal issues, a wide range of advisory topics is covered. However, no diagnoses or second opinions are provided, nor are specific practices and hospitals recommended. Later in the year, it is planned to expand the advisory landscape by adding 16 regional consulting centers, with an emphasis on additional local presence. The Federal Government's Patient Commissioner, Stefan Schwartze, emphasized the importance of the resumption of services, now financially secured by the foundation's organization. The annual funding of 15 million euros is provided by the health insurance companies, with participation from private health insurance expected. Despite the positive developments, employment law issues from the period of the former operating company remain unresolved. There are still 29 lawsuits pending from former employees seeking continuation of their employment contracts. Past criticism of the old operational model, which was based on concerns regarding UPD's independence, led to a political realignment aimed at a transparent and autonomous structure of the advisory foundation. Consumer advocates also welcome the relaunch, as independence is a central concern, especially in conflicts with health insurance companies or after problematic hospital visits.