Deprez noted that 20% to 30% of A&E visits are unnecessary and could be managed by a GP instead. She emphasised that many individuals habitually turn to emergency services, particularly when their regular GP is unavailable. While this behaviour is not inherently wrong, it contributes to overcrowding in emergency departments, she stated.
To address this issue, Deprez stressed the need for enhanced healthcare education and increased public awareness about navigating the healthcare system. The Ministry aims to initiate this process by educating schoolchildren, with the goal of fostering a broader understanding among the population about where to seek appropriate care depending on the circumstances.
Regarding the rollout of the PID system, designed to streamline patient payments by allowing them to only pay the portion of medical bills not covered by the National Health Fund (CNS) at the time of service, Deprez provided updates. Over 200 doctors, out of more than 2,600, have adopted the system thus far. While the system’s utilisation has expanded, Deprez acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly the time required to onboard new doctors. She clarified that physicians are not the ones to blame but that the delays are simply due to the intricacies of installing the IT infrastructure and associated programmes.
At the start of her tenure, Minister Deprez floated the prospect of reforming the pension system. On Wednesday, she announced plans for a comprehensive consultation on the matter to commence in the autumn. Before the summer recess, the Economic and Social Council is expected to provide an opinion, laying the groundwork for deliberations, Deprez revealed.
Emphasising inclusivity, Deprez underscored her intention to engage with all stakeholders and organise roundtable discussions. At this juncture, she refrained from endorsing any specific reform approach, affirming her commitment to an open dialogue.
Deprez reiterated her stance against inter-generational divides, although she already announced previously that current pensioners would not face reductions in benefits. Minister Deprez stressed that “no one should face poverty in old age, and no one should be afraid to retire.”
