Family Doctor Model
The Family Doctor Model of the Mandatory Health Insurance
The family doctor model, an alternative to the regular health insurance, requires you to consult your family doctor for health concerns first, who then may refer you to specialists if necessary. This close relationship with the family doctor can reduce premium costs, as efficient initial consultations prevent unnecessary visits to specialists.
How to Find a Suitable General Practitioner
The concept of the family doctor model was made mandatory for health insurances with the health reform of 2007. This rate aims to increase efficiency in healthcare by centralizing patient care with the family doctor.
If you opt for the family doctor model, you choose a doctor from the list provided by your health insurance. This family doctor will then be your first point of contact for health issues. If necessary, he will refer you to specialists..
Switching to another family doctor is possible at any time if you are dissatisfied or move.
What Criteria Must the Physician Meet?
Doctors who wish to participate in the family doctor rate are subject to certain requirements according to § 73 b SGB V. They are obliged to participate in quality circles, adhere to specific treatment guidelines, and maintain verifiable quality management. Health insurances are responsible for verifying these criteria before doctors are included in their family doctor lists.
Benefits of the Family Doctor Rate
The family doctor model concentrates medical treatments with the general practitioner, who acts as a central point of contact and aims to avoid unnecessary specialist visits. The result is more efficient patient care and cost reduction in healthcare.
Besides lower premiums, the family doctor model offers additional benefits such as flexible appointment scheduling and shorter waiting times. Initial examinations by the general practitioner promote early detection of diseases and improve the quality of specialist treatments, as these only occur on targeted referral.
Compare basic health insurers and find the right family doctor model
Although the family doctor model limits your choice of doctors, it helps you save on premiums. Our basic insurance comparison helps you find the right family doctor model within Visana.