Copying the Icelandic healthcare model

Medical deserts are a growing reality, whether in Canada, France or, as this ARTE report shows, Germany. Many people, especially in rural areas or far from urban centers, find themselves having to rely solely on the local hospital, if there is one. This approach is made all the more practical by the fact that there is a shortage of medical staff everywhere, both nurses and doctors.

So how can we provide adequate health care for all? Perhaps we should look to Iceland's healthcare communities for inspiration. Like most Scandinavian countries, Iceland has an excellent healthcare system. In Iceland, clinics have developed that challenge the medical hierarchy.

Rather than putting everything in the hands of doctors, they work in collaboration with trained nurses who can handle a wide range of care, while general practitioners take on the heavier cases. In addition, carers answer telephone calls to listen to patients' questions and guide them: do they need inpatient or outpatient care, or not?

Some parts of Germany are interested in this structure as a way of preserving the public system. However, German doctors still need to be persuaded to relinquish some of their duties. Some agree, others refuse. All this is taking place against a backdrop of austerity that even Iceland is experiencing, threatening a system that used to provide good coverage for the entire population.

Running time: 30min32

Image: Halcyon Marine Healthcare Systems from Pixabay