📋 Tender Overview
From 21 to 22 August 2023, the meeting of representatives and ministers of social security and health of the German-speaking countries Sozialquintett and Gesundheitsquintett took place in Großbeeren (Germany). To discuss current social security and health issues, representatives of Germany, the Principality of Liechtenstein, Austria, Switzerland and Luxembourg met.
The first topic discussed was the digitalization of social security systems. The use of digital structures allows for better enforcement of workers' social security rights, more accessible benefits and services for citizens and better cross-border collaboration. In particular, the electronic exchange of social security information (EESSI) greatly facilitates communication between social security institutions. However, the main advantage of digitalisation is to make services more accessible, to free cross-border work from bureaucratic obstacles and also to optimise control procedures.
The second theme addressed was the retention of qualified personnel in the health professions. Demographic changes are increasing the demand for skilled workers in the health and care sectors. Modern working structures with a high technical level make it possible to retain competent professionals, attract new talent while meeting the needs of an ageing society in the future as well.
In addition, the importance of the immigration of health personnel from third countries, which requires consultation at European level, was highlighted. It was stressed that recruitment must be ethical and in line with international standards.
To conclude the first day of the meeting, a joint declaration was signed, affirming the commitment of the participants to develop and strengthen the social system in their respective countries. The second day of work was devoted to public health issues.
