Austrian Doctor Faces Abrupt Contract Termination on Birthday, Then Receives Reprieve
St.Pölten, Austria – Dr. Herbert Becvar, a physician in the St. Pölten district, experienced a jarring surprise on his recent birthday: notification that his health insurance contract would not be renewed due to an age clause.The unexpected decision sparked regional concern and left Dr. Becvar facing an uncertain future, but was reversed just days later.
The contract issue affects Dr. Becvar and at least three other doctors in the district, highlighting a growing debate over age limits within the austrian medical system.While two colleagues have already successfully negotiated extensions, Dr. becvar’s initial termination notice created local uproar and raised questions about access to healthcare for patients reliant on established physicians. The situation underscores the challenges faced by experienced doctors navigating evolving regulations and potential forced retirement.
According to Dr. Becvar, he received a call Tuesday morning informing him of the reversal. “I got a call from the medical association an hour ago,” he stated, visibly relieved, “they decided differently.” The medical association has not yet publicly commented on the reasoning behind the initial decision or the subsequent change of course.
The doctor anticipates a new contract will be finalized shortly and expressed his continued commitment to his practice. “If I stay as healthy as I am now, I could imagine it being another five years,” he said, indicating his desire to continue serving his patients.
