Nationwide symposium :
"Municipal paths to greater health equity"

The symposium was organised by the Centre of Research for Society and Sustainability (CeSST) at Fulda University of Applied Sciences and the German Institute for Interdisciplinary Social Policy Research (DIFIS) in collaboration with Ärzte der Welt e.V. and BACK. Prof. Dr Ilker Ataç managed the program.

Representatives from local authorities, health and social welfare offices and civil society organisations discussed different models of municipal care structures for people without health insurance across Germany. The focus was on clearing centres, health funds and anonymous treatment certificates - in particular their funding, organisational implementation and institutional anchoring.

The conference showed that municipal initiatives in individual cities are attempting to close gaps in care, while in other cities hardly any structures have yet been passed. At the same time, it became clear that structural, nationwide solutions are urgently needed.

Exchange continues: digital formats and network planned

The inter-municipal exchange proved to be particularly valuable, enabling participants to discuss best practice examples and strengthen cooperation between municipalities and civil society actors. "The municipalities want to learn from each other - continuously, not just once a year," said Prof Ataç. "We will develop formats for exchange together with the participants." Digital themed cafés, an online database with examples of good practice, a newsletter and annual face-to-face conferences are planned.