Currently am involved with some practical training with Bernhard
Fuerthauer, who is a GP, in Salzburg. We planed to address the topic of
Home Visits in a lecture at the University, situated in Graz. Therefore we
have decided to make an inquiry through the internet. Some answers were
really incredible. I am disappointed with the organisation called "BHIA".
According to their statement they are simply intending to provide a clear
view for consumers of health care through the internet. This organisation
does not seem to support Home Visits. I do not appreciate such an idea,
because I have seen myself how important it is to provide Home Visits for
the purpose of humanity and social issues. There are many details regarding
social and other perspects of the patients which cannot be assertained
during an Office Visit. This matters are helpful for a GP, because they
demonstrate the personal life of patients.
Many people insist of a Home Visit because of their good relationship to
the GP and the large degree of confidence between them. This might
sometimes be a problem if there is a need to refer to a specialist.
Particulary old people prefer Home Visits. They will feel much better if
they can just hear a few words from their GP. Technicaly this might not be
necessary, but concerning the social factor, I would say, it is essential.
Additionally I think there are just two disadvantages regarding Home
Visits. They are the time spend and the limitations regarding available
procedures. In my opinion every GP needs to keep in mind that the social
factors and the contact with patients are more important than the matter of
saving time.
Therefore I cannot agree to the strategy which is represented by the BHIA.
And I do not believe being alone with this opinion!!
cand.med. Birgit Kiefer, Billrothgasse 41/106, A-8047 Graz
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