Gambling establishments issue warnings over potential hip and knee injuries
In Germany, the demand for Individual Health Services (IGeL) – a term used to describe medical treatments offered in practices – is on the rise, particularly in the fields of orthopedics, ophthalmology, and gynecology. According to recent research, insured patients spent at least 2.4 billion euros on IGeL services in 2021.
One of the most common IGeL treatments is knee and hip injections, which involve administering hyaluronic acid to replace missing joint fluid. However, unlike hyaluronic acid injections, several pain-alleviating and mobility-improving treatments are covered by insurance, such as joint replacement for severe arthritis.
The cost of knee and hip injections can vary, with treatment cycles ranging from approximately 220 to 300 euros, and exceeding 500 euros depending on the preparation used. Despite the cost, many insured individuals believe that IGeL services, including these injections, are no longer offered by insurers. However, this is incorrect, according to Stefan Gronemeyer, the chairman of the Medical Service of the Health Insurance Funds (Medizinischer Dienst der Krankenkassen).
Gronemeyer has expressed concerns about the lack of information provided to patients about the potential risks associated with IGeL services. He calls for practices to be required to regularly offer independently created, evidence-based assessments and information. He also advises settled physicians to provide facts instead of advertising in waiting rooms, criticizing promises of benefit through practice flyers and TV advertisements.
Research conducted by the Medizinischer Dienst der Krankenkassen has shown that the effectiveness of shock wave therapy for shoulder pain is unclear, with an indefinite or unclear assessment given for this therapy. Out of 60 examined IGeL services, 31 were negatively assessed, 26 had unclear results due to insufficient studies, and only 3 had a tendency towards positive results.
Gronemeyer suggests that IGeL should not be provided on the same day they are offered, to give affected individuals time to consider. He is particularly concerned about the widespread prevalence of arthritis, with one in six people between the ages of 60 and 80 affected by knee joint arthritis, and one in ten by hip joint arthritis – with a significantly higher prevalence among those over 80.
Numerous studies over 50 years have evaluated the benefits of knee and hip injections and found that the potential harm outweighs the benefits. Gronemeyer urges caution when considering these treatments, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and clear communication between patients and healthcare providers.
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