Rather low: The future orientation of medical practices in Germany

What it’s all about

The medical landscape in Germany is facing fundamental change. While some medical practices have already recognised the signs of the times and are proactively approaching the future, many others are still stuck in traditional structures. Around 20 % of German GP and specialist practices can be categorised as progressive, 30 % are in a transitional stage and 50 % are still operating traditionally. The difference between these groups can be attributed to three key aspects: entrepreneurial practice management, the targeted use of digitalisation and the development of soft skills.

Entrepreneurial practice management

Progressive medical practices are characterised by a clear entrepreneurial focus. These practices are seen not only as places of medical care, but also as complex companies that are managed strategically. Doctors in these practices have a comprehensive understanding of staff management, know the importance of organisational structures and use targeted strategies to manage their practice successfully. There is regular further training, a clear allocation of tasks and effective utilisation of available resources. Practice management is based on business management principles, which leads to greater efficiency and better patient care.

This contrasts with transitory and traditional practices, where a strongly paternalistic management structure often prevails. Here, the doctor is usually the sole decision-maker and there is a lack of a systematic approach to management tasks. Strategic planning and regular evaluations of practice goals are rare, which leads to inefficiencies and a reduced ability to adapt to changing market conditions in the long term.

Digitalisation

Another key difference is the use of digital solutions Progressive practices make targeted use of digital technologies to optimise their processes and improve patient care. Electronic patient records, telemedicine, digital appointment booking systems and modern means of communication are standard here. These practices are recognising the benefits of digitalisation and investing in appropriate solutions that not only save them time and money, but also increase patient satisfaction.

In transitory and traditional practices, on the other hand, digitalisation is often only sporadic, unstructured and in accordance with the minimum legal requirements. Great reservations and scepticism towards new technologies dominate, which is partly due to a lack of entrepreneurial skills. The decision for or against digital solutions is often made on the basis of uncertainty and a lack of knowledge rather than sound cost-benefit analyses. This leads to a backlog that is becoming increasingly difficult to make up in times of increasing digitalisation.

Soft skills

A third and often underestimated point that distinguishes progressive practices from others is the availability and application of soft skills. In an increasingly connected and patient-centred healthcare landscape, skills such as strong communication, empathy, conflict management and teamwork are crucial. Progressive practices are investing in developing these skills in their staff. They recognise that good communication and a positive working environment can significantly increase not only employee satisfaction, but also patient satisfaction and therefore the overall success of the practice.

Traditional practices, on the other hand, often place less emphasis on these “soft” factors. Here, professional expertise in medical care takes centre stage, while social and communication skills are considered less important. This leads to distanced and less patient-orientated practice management, which is increasingly reaching its limits in modern healthcare.

Conclusion

In summary, it can be said that the future viability of medical practices in Germany depends largely on their ability to see themselves as a company and act accordingly, to take advantage of digitalisation and to develop and apply important soft skills. Practices that neglect these aspects run the risk of losing touch and weakening their competitive position. It is therefore essential for a successful future that medical practices continue to develop and adapt to changing requirements. This is the only way they can survive in the long term and offer their patients the best possible care.