Styrians stunned

Dermatologist appointment? Please wait until February 2025!

A wait of up to a year - that's what Styrians could face if they (urgently) need to see a specialist. The ÖGK's plan does not tackle the root of the problem, but makes it more difficult for patients to see a doctor. . .

A demand by the Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) recently caused a stir: Visits to specialists should only be possible with a referral. The compulsory health insurance fund wants to take a step back to times long gone. Currently, depending on the insurance provider, patients can visit one contract doctor per specialist area (e.g. ENT, cardiology) per quarter by showing their e-card.