In Germany, the Deutsche Hausärzteverband (the professional association for general practitioners) has revealed plans to co-operate with a private health insurer for the first time. In particular, it has initiated discussions with AXA Krankenversicherung with the aim of forming a long-term partnership, which would be the first such collaboration between the medical association and a private health insurer. Both partners are currently reviewing opportunities for innovative models of healthcare provided by a general practitioner and funded by insurance premiums. The Deutsche Hausärzteverband has over 34,000 members, making it the largest association of practicing doctors in Germany and in Europe.
