Austrian Health Fund Probes Gynecologist Over Patient Abuse Claims
Contractual Relationship Under Scrutiny Amid Years of Allegations
Vienna is grappling with serious allegations against a long-standing gynecologist. The Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) has initiated a comprehensive review to determine if its contractual ties with the physician should be maintained following numerous patient complaints.
ÖGK Launches Investigation into Doctor’s Conduct
Years of reported patient mistreatment, including accusations of aggressive behavior and verbal insults, have prompted the ÖGK to take action. The investigation, also reported by “Ö1,” will meticulously examine the extensive claims leveled against the Viennese doctor.
ÖGK chairman **Andreas Huss** emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating in a radio broadcast, “In any case, we will take a close look at what the allegations concerned, where patients were treated very roughly or not justifiable, were also obviously insulted.”
Potential Contract Dissolution Discussed with Medical Association
Should the review uncover significant professional misconduct, the ÖGK plans to collaborate with the Medical Association to consider terminating the doctor’s contract. **Andreas Huss** stressed the importance of aligning with the medical registry’s representation.
In specific circumstances, the ÖGK can unilaterally sever ties without the chamber’s involvement. This option is available if issues arise concerning the doctor’s billed services.
“In the event of proven fraud, we can dissolve the contractual relationship on its own. But of course it is always better and safer if we do it with the Medical Association,”
**Huss** explained, adding his personal belief that the organization has no interest in contracting with such practitioners.
Context of Patient Care Standards
Concerns about medical professional conduct are not isolated. In Germany, for instance, a recent report highlighted that over 100 doctors faced disciplinary actions in 2023 for professional misconduct, including patient abuse (Source: Deutsche Ärzteblatt, 2024). This underscores the ongoing efforts to maintain high standards in healthcare delivery.
