Saxony's GPs are younger - but there is still a lack of successors

In Saxony, GPs are slightly younger in comparison to the rest of the country. Around 29 percent of Saxony's GPs are currently 60 years or older, according to the Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians in Saxony (KV Sachsen). According to data from the German Medical Association, around a third (33.2 percent) of GPs were aged 60 or older last year. Nationwide, the proportion was just under 41 percent. It was particularly high in Rhineland-Palatinate (48 percent), Saarland (46.2 percent) and Bremen (45.4 percent).

Despite the comparatively low average age, the KV Saxony warns of a worsening situation. Around 2,800 GPs are currently providing care in the state - 370 GP positions are vacant. According to the KV, only twelve percent of doctors are under the age of 40.

Young in comparison - but with a growing gap

In order to counteract this, the KV is continuing its "Practices for Saxony!" campaign. It aims to attract doctors to set up practices, particularly in rural areas. "GP care is the backbone of our healthcare system - especially in Saxony's rural regions," said KV CEO Stefan Windau. In view of an increasingly ageing population and medical profession, the task of finding practice successors or founders is a daunting one. "Only together with the GP practices in rural areas can we continue to secure local care in the future."

Campaign aims to make people want to have their own practice

The campaign relies on print and digital media as well as social networks. There are three new videos in which Saxon doctors talk about their experiences of setting up a practice. In addition, the KV refers to financial support for practice takeovers or start-ups, which should enable a low-risk start.