The predominant topic at the meeting was the demographic move in medicine, as the average age of doctors is higher than it used to be. This raises concerns in terms of doctors retiring, as there may be a shortage of replacements.
Minister for Health Etienne Schneider, the association of doctors, and the hospitals federation were all unanimous in the decision that there must be key changes to avoid this personnel shortage.
A further topic concerned magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines. Over the next year, each of Luxembourg's hospitals will receive a further MRI machine, bringing the total in the country to eleven.
In the hopes of reducing waiting periods for MRI scans, the minister also discussed the option of local practices using MRI machines. Currently, the legislation only allows hospitals to use such medical equipment. As a result, the government would amend the legislation in order to reduce waiting periods.
In this sense, Schneider differs from his predecessor, Lydia Mutsch. A press release from the ministry highlighted Schneider's pleasure at the success of the meeting and the unanimity within the sector.
