Some things I’m learning about primary care in Denmark compared to Canada. A thread. 1/n
Mandatory enrolment. Everyone has a family doctor. Patients don’t have to spend time trying to find a FP. The name of the FP is right there on their CPR (Civil Personal Registration) card, Denmarks' version of a social insurance number. 2/n
Patients may choose to find another FP should they wish. 3/n
Access to specialists. Your FP sends a referral and YOU choose a specialist from a list where you see the estimated wait for an appt. No wasted time being referred to one specialist whose list is too long.4/n
Much higher percentage of quick and even same day appointments. MDs more likely to stay on time.5/n
Denmark's system has well-developed electronic health records + several apps that facilitate quick and portable access to the healthcare system from your computer, phone or tablet.6/n
Family practices in Denmark make effective use of allied health professionals in a team approach. Example: midwives providing primary OB/GYN care in the family practice.7/n
There are roughly 3,500 FPs in Denmark. Government figures suggest they need another 1,500. The govt was slow to increase the number of medical school places. Still needed are more FP residency spots and more FP licenses to practice in Copenhagen.8/n
Patients in Denmark are generally satisfied with primary care but have complaints: 1. FP as 'gatekeeper' restricting access to tests and specialists. 2. FPs reluctant to prescribe antibiotics, preferring to 'let nature take its course.'9/n
Other complaints from Danes: 3. Little prescribing of psychoactive meds like antidepressants for young adults. 4. Right or wrong, patients complain that FPs in Denmark are quick to ascribe emotional causes to physical symptoms.10/n
Much more on an upcoming episode of @cbcwhitecoat 11/n
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