Hofstra students discover solidarity in the German healthcare system

Hofstra students discover solidarity in the German healthcare system

A group of students and professors from Hofstra University in New York recently made a week-long visit to Bremen, supported by Constructor University. The aim of the stay was to get to know the German healthcare system and the welfare state. In addition to lectures by scientists, the program also included discussions with health experts from various areas. The participants were particularly impressed by the solidarity orientation of the German system compared to its American counterpart.

The initiator of the charm, Magdalena Dieterle, coordinator for international programs at Constructor University, emphasized the importance of such short-term programs for students. In this context, the 12 students and 3 professors had the opportunity to exchange ideas with politicians. One notable representative was Reiner Bensch from the CDU, who provided insights into current health policy issues.

Cultural and professional impressions

Special cultural excursions made the visit a comprehensive experience. The group visited the Emigration Museum in Bremerhaven and the Paula Modersohn Becker Museum, which contributed to the exploration of German culture and history. During their time in Germany, scientists like Dr. Franziska Deutsch and Dr. Solveig Lena Hansen lectures that dealt with the challenges of the German healthcare system.

The discussions highlighted not only the strengths but also the weaknesses of the system. While Germany offers a high availability of health personnel compared to other countries and, with 213 hospital admissions per 1,000 inhabitants, is well above the EU average, there are also challenges such as a shortage of personnel and technological gaps. These aspects were discussed in detail by the students and professors.

Health equity and structural deficits

Another critical point that was raised was the issue of health equity. According to reports, despite good access to care facilities, there are significant deficiencies in care in Germany. These inequalities are partly due to strong economic interests and the persistence of established institutions. The challenges in health promotion and prevention are clearly noticeable, as progress in reality often falls short of expectations.

If you compare the frequency of contact with doctors, differences also become apparent. On average, every German citizen in Germany visits a doctor almost ten times a year, while in countries like France this figure is only 5.6 visits. The German system is perceived as easily accessible, which is also reflected in the relatively small number of people who forego medical treatment for financial reasons. However, there are significant deficits, particularly in primary care.

In summary, the visit to Hofstra University shows that the exchange between cultures and systems is not only enriching, but also offers valuable insights into the respective health system's own strengths and weaknesses. The participants' committed discussions and analyzes underline the relevance of such international cooperation and the need to proactively address existing challenges.