Chronic diseases such as diabetes, coronary heart disease (CHD), asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are widespread and are among the most common health problems today, particularly in industrialised countries. In order to optimise the treatment of these diseases, the so-called DMP by the statutory health insurance funds in close cooperation with medical practices offered.

The aim of the treatment programmes is to Best possible long-term therapy for chronically ill people and thus significantly improve their quality of life. The treatment is always based on the latest medical findings with proven effectiveness.

Good to know: Some health insurance companies call the DMPs by different names - such as the „Better Life Programme“ at Barmer GEK or the ACURA Plan at AOK. However, the treatment programmes do not differ.

Within a disease management programme, medical specialists and facilities (e.g. GPs and specialists, hospitals and rehabilitation facilities) work closely and systematically together. In this way, treatment methods can be optimally harmonised and unnecessary duplication of examinations can be avoided. The general practitioner is usually the first point of contact for participants.

A central aim of the programmes is also to involve patients in their own treatment - for example through special training courses where chronically ill people can deepen their knowledge about their own illness.