An interview with Alexander Bauer, 14th EURIPA Rural Health Forum Scientific Committee chair:  "Rural Reformation: Meeting Wellbeing and Healthcare Needs in Rural Communities" 

Alexander Bauer is currently Research Coordinator at the Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Medical Faulty of the Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg as well as Coordinator of the Research Practice Network Halle-Leipzig RaPHaeL. He is member of the German Society of General Practice and Family Medicine, DEGAM; of the German Cancer Society, DKG; of The European Association for Cancer Research, EACR, Konferenz Onkologischer Kranken- und Kinderkrankenpflege, KOK, and of the Supportive Measures in Oncology, Rehabilitation and Social Medicine, ASORS

We wanted to sit down with Alexander to know more about the 14th EURIPA Rural Health Forum 2025

1.- How would you introduce EURIPA to our readers?
EURIPA is like a big family of healthcare professionals who are passionate about rural medicine. It’s a network that brings together GPs, nurses, researchers, and policymakers to improve healthcare in rural and isolated areas across Europe. If you care about making sure people in small towns and remote communities get the healthcare they deserve, then EURIPA is the place to be!

2.- Why did you consider hosting the 14th EURIPA Rural Health Forum 2025?
Because rural healthcare needs all the attention it can get. Hosting this forum gives us a chance to shine a spotlight on the unique challenges rural communities face—GP shortages, access to specialists, mental health support—and, more importantly, to find real, practical solutions. It’s also about bringing people together, sharing ideas, and inspiring change.

3.- Why did you choose the theme “Rural Reformation: Meeting Wellbeing and Healthcare Needs in Rural Communities"?
The word Reformation captures what’s happening in rural healthcare right now. We and many others are at a point where we need to rethink and reshape how care is delivered—whether that’s through telemedicine, better support for rural GPs, or tackling the social determinants of health. It’s not just about medical treatment; it’s about improving overall wellbeing and making rural areas healthier places to live.

4.- What other topics will be dealt with in the conference?
There’s a lot on the table! We’ll be diving into:

• How technology (like telemedicine) is making healthcare more accessible in rural areas

• Strategies to attract and retain doctors in rural communities

• The impact of climate change on rural health

• Mental health services—because isolation can take a toll on wellbeing

• Clinical excellence to properly respond to the challenges of the silver tsumani wave European countries are facing

And so much more!

5.- Regarding the keynote lectures and speakers, what would you highlight?
We’re bringing in some truly inspiring speakers—people who have dedicated their work to improve rural healthcare. Notably, Dr. Andrée Rochfort and Dr. Karen Flegg will be sharing their insights. Expect thought-provoking talks, and discussions on innovative policies that could change the future of rural health. It’s not just about lectures; it’s about sparking real conversations that lead to action. 

6.- What about abstract submissions?
We want to hear from anyone with ideas, research, or experiences that can contribute to the future of rural healthcare! Whether you’re a young GP, a researcher, or a healthcare worker on the ground, we encourage you to submit abstracts on topics that matter. This forum is about learning from each other and sharing solutions that actually work.

7.- Regarding the social program, what does the conference offer?
It’s not all work and no play! The social program is designed to help people connect in a more relaxed setting. Expect cultural experiences, networking dinners, and maybe even a chance to explore the local countryside. These moments are often where the best ideas (and collaborations) come to life!

8.- Why should GPs attend the conference?
If you’re a GP working in a rural area—or even just interested in rural healthcare—this conference is for you. It’s a chance to gain new perspectives, learn practical strategies to make your job easier, and connect with like-minded professionals who understand the challenges (and joys!) of rural practice.

9.- What does the conference offer to young GPs?
For young GPs, this is a golden opportunity! You’ll get to meet experienced rural practitioners, learn about career paths in rural medicine, and take part in workshops designed to equip you with the skills needed for working in remote areas. Plus, it’s a great chance to build your professional network!

10.- What key messages would you like the conference to deliver?

• Rural healthcare needs innovation, investment, and attention—now more than ever.

• Digital health can be a game-changer, but it needs to be accessible and well-integrated.

• We must support and train the next generation of rural healthcare providers.

• Rural health isn’t just about medicine; it’s about wellbeing, environment, and community.

• Change starts with people—this conference is about taking action, not just talking!

11.- Will it carry on with the ‘Take the Pledge for Planetary Health’ initiative?
Absolutely! Rural communities are deeply connected to the environment, and we can’t ignore the impact of climate change on health. This initiative is a way for healthcare professionals to commit to sustainable practices and advocate for policies that protect both people and the planet.

12.- How is the healthcare system and family medicine in Germany?
Germany has one of the strongest healthcare systems in Europe, with universal coverage and excellent medical training. Family medicine here remains essential, with GPs (Hausärzte) providing primary care and coordinating specialist treatment. However, rural areas face similar challenges to other countries—GP shortages, longer wait times, and difficulty accessing specialists. Efforts are being made to make rural practice more attractive, but there’s still a lot of work ahead.

13.- Which book are you reading? Do you recommend it?

Right now, I’m reading Unglaubliche Wissenschaft (roughly translates to "fascinating" or "unbelievable science") by Lewis Wolpert. It’s a unique look at the surprising and sometimes counterintuitive ways science shapes our understanding of the world. If you enjoy books that challenge the way you think about everyday phenomena, I’d definitely recommend it!

Join us in Wittenberg, Saxony-Anhalt (Germany) between 26-28 June 2025  https://forum.euripa.org/  

Abstract Submission Deadline: 24 March 2025