Family doctors, the TARDOC tariff system does not convince (cross-border guide)

Context

In a nutshell

• TARDOC does not convince family doctors and pediatricians
• Costs increase and the attractiveness of the profession decreases
• Young doctors prefer to specialize

• What: New TARDOC tariff system
• When: Entered into force a few months ago
• Where: Switzerland
• Who: Family doctors and paediatricians
• Amount: Increase in fixed costs

Only a few months after its entry into force, the new tariff system for outpatient medical services TARDOC does not convince family doctors and paediatricians. The desire of the policy to enhance the profession is not reflected in the current reality, supports the Association of Family and Children's Physicians (MFE).

Co-chair Sébastien Jotterand points out to CSR microphones an increase in expenses: "Our work does not change, our fixed costs increase, but profits are blocked. This will prevent us from investing in staff training. ” And he adds: "The real catastrophic effect, however, is that young doctors know that a generalist will earn less than a specialist and therefore that is where they will go".

However, there is no internal struggle between generalists and specialists: "The professional association of doctors (FMH) supports us, at least in theory, talking about revaluing the work of family doctors. And this is also done by insurers and in some ways by politicians. Now, however, let's wait for the facts. "

It took ten years of work and discussions to

Operational details

Practical implications

Criticism of the TARDOC raises questions about the practical implications for GPs and patients. Sebastien Jotterand pointed out that the increase in fixed costs and the blocking of earnings could lead to a decrease in the quality of medical services. This is because GPs may not have the resources to invest in staff training and equipment upgrades.

Possible scenarios

One possible scenario is that young doctors, seeing that generalists earn less than specialists, choose to specialize. This could lead to a shortage of GPs, with negative consequences for the accessibility of primary care. Another scenario is that family doctors, seeing no improvement in their economic conditions, decide to reduce working hours or close their studies, leaving patients without a point of reference for primary care.

Comparison with TARMED

The TARDOC represents a significant change from the old TARMED system. While the TARMED was static and did not include review mechanisms, the TARDOC is dynamic and allows you to correct any absurdities or structural flaws. This could lead to a fairer and more sustainable tariff system in the long term, but only if current criticisms are taken into account and resolved.

Institutional support

Despite the

Recommended tools

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Key points

Concrete actions

For GPs who are experiencing difficulties due to TARDOC, it is important to seek support from institutions and professional associations. The Family and Child Physicians' Association (MFE) and the Professional Association of Physicians (FMH) can offer assistance and representation. In addition, physicians can participate in discussions and revisions of the fee system to make their voices heard and help improve the TARDOC.

Useful tools

For patients who turn to family physicians, it is important to be aware of the possible implications of the TARDOC. If they notice changes in the performance or working conditions of their doctors, they can contact patient associations or health authorities to report any problems. In addition, they can use tools such as the salary calculator to better understand the economic implications of the TARDOC on their GPs.

Conclusion

The TARDOC represents a challenge for family doctors and paediatricians, but also an opportunity to improve the fee system for outpatient medical services. It is critical that institutions and professional associations work together to solve current critical issues and ensure a fair and sustainable system for all.

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Source: rsi.ch