Prof Shlomo Vinker represented WONCA Europe at the Hungarian Association of Family Doctors (HAOSZ) 5th National Conference, that took place between June 12–14, 2025, in Balatonalmádi, Hungary. Themed “What is the Role of Primary Care in the Future Healthcare System?”, the event brought together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and international experts to explore how primary care can assume a more central role in Hungary’s healthcare landscape, which remains overly hospital-centered.
The conference was attended by over 650 participants, with the professional program supported by more than 100 distinguished speakers, including national and international experts. Sessions included symposia, interactive workshops, and thematic sections tailored to physicians, dentists, and healthcare professionals across the full spectrum of primary care. Discussions focused on enhancing the role and competencies of primary care, including prescribing rights, referral authority, financing reform, and digital transformation — all key to building a more efficient and accessible system.
Prof Vinker participated in the awards ceremony during Friday's gala dinner as well, which was organized in the spirit of the messages published by WONCA on the World Family Doctor Day. In the competition, colleagues who demonstrated good practices in their work in relation to their patients and their own mental health were rewarded. The winner received an electric bicycle.
Before the forum, State Secretary Dr. Takács made an important announcement: in the coming weeks, Hungarian general practitioners will see a significant expansion of their professional scope, aiming to enhance the prestige of the GPs and reduce the burden on outpatient specialty care institutions.
Looking ahead, HAOSZ is committed to deepening its collaboration with WONCA Europe, contributing to the long-term advancement of Hungarian primary care and ensuring that the sector remains aligned with international standards and innovations.