The iconic space of La Pedrera once again hosted the Fòrum Quirúrgica, an event that in its eighth edition managed to bring together doctors, hospitals, and insurers with the aim of debating on collaboration and competition within the private healthcare sector. Organized by Quirúrgica Cirujanos Asociados, the forum served as a platform to deeply reflect on how these three actors, who make up the same value chain, can address the common challenges they face.
One of the highlights of the event was when Dr. Toño Peña, partner at Uros Associats, proposed the idea of seeking ‘shared solutions’, suggesting the possibility of patients assuming additional payments in certain cases. This proposal was well received by Dr. Alberto Diez-Caballero, who advocated for exploring possible copayment agreements to improve healthcare.
During the forum, perspectives from representatives of insurers and large hospitals were also heard. Dr. Xavier Cantó from DKV Catalunya mentioned that the company is considering new products that would allow patients to make extra payments for additional services without significantly increasing premiums. He also proposed measures to increase transparency and trust among all parties involved. Similarly, Germán Barraqueta, director of Quirón Salud in Catalunya, stated that conflicts in the sector are mostly incidental and emphasized the importance of collaboration that benefits everyone.
Dr. Àlex Flor, CO-CEO of Quirúrgica Cirujanos Asociados, encouraged participants to choose between collaboration and competition, urging to open dialogue to discover potential synergies. However, topics such as lack of trust among sector actors were also addressed. Dr. Cantó highlighted waste in unnecessary services, while Dr. Peña criticized economic policies and low incomes for doctors. On the other hand, Alberto Merino from FIATC Seguros warned about the risk of losing customers if insurance prices rise.
Germán Barraqueta rejected the idea that Quirón had a dominant position, and Manel Peiró, an expert in healthcare management from ESADE, suggested that reducing insurance prices could degrade their quality, emphasizing the need to align the interests of doctors, hospitals, and insurers.
The event concluded with words from actor Paco Mir, who emphasized the importance of coordination among the three actors to properly fulfill their role towards patients. Finally, Jaume Padrós, President of the Official College of Physicians of Barcelona, expressed his support for the ‘Quirúrgica model’ as the way forward for the future of private healthcare.
via: MiMub in Spanish
