Sister Agnes: Memories of the good GDR health care!

Sister Agnes: Memories of the good GDR health care!

Health care has changed significantly since the times of the GDR, but many citizens miss the former polyclinics and the role of “Sister Agnes”. These community nurses were not just simple nurses, but had sound training and took on medical tasks that went far beyond traditional nursing. According to that Northern Courier They carried out essential activities such as blood sugar and blood pressure measurements, blood samples and injections and had an important place in outpatient medical care.

The GDR polyclinics were outpatient treatment centers in which trained doctors from various disciplines worked. The offering included everything from general medicine to specialists such as gynecologists and dentists. A major advantage for patients was the proximity of the specialists to each other, which made it possible to quickly receive the necessary help through shorter distances. This organization was founded in MDR also highlighted, where the benefits of sharing medical equipment and laboratory facilities were outlined.

Desirable return?

Despite the conveniences these facilities brought, memories of the polyclinics are mixed. Many former patients report long waiting times and a lack of personal care as patients could not even choose their doctor. This often led to a distant relationship between doctor and patient. Dr. Bernd Hübenthal, a former doctor from Sangerhausen, described that patients had to be satisfied with the doctor who was on duty at the time MDR is to be read.

Today, people are skeptical about the health care system of the past, despite the achievements it offered. The GDR health system was known for its broad, comprehensive care, free medical care and widespread preventive examinations. However, it is not without criticism bpb determines. Shortages of medicines and stagnant quality of medical equipment were problems that could not be ignored.

Today's discussion about healthcare

The healthcare system has changed and people now often have to take responsibility for themselves in order to receive the appropriate medical services. However, the need for centralized and comprehensive care, such as that offered by polyclinics, remains. There is even discussion about whether new medical care centers (MVZ) can represent a useful addition to existing practices. He commented on this Northern Courier that an examination of the feasibility of these facilities is necessary.

In conclusion, it can be said that the experiences and memories of the healthcare system in the GDR are still alive today. Many people value the systems of that time and would like to see approaches aimed at providing more comprehensive patient care. At a time when physician shortages and overwhelmed health care systems are becoming increasingly clear, lessons from the past can provide valuable guidance for the future.