Advocates urge backing for home-based quick diagnostic tests for patients
In the face of rising COVID-19 outbreaks in care and nursing homes across Germany, patient advocates and board members of the German Foundation for Patient Protection are calling for swift personnel support for rapid testing of residents.
Eugen Brysch, a board member of the foundation, has expressed concern over the insufficient efforts of the federal and state governments, likening the promise of vaccines to a mocking call to drowning people. He believes that immediate action is needed to stop infections in these vulnerable homes.
However, it appears that the German military (Bundeswehr) is not being utilised for rapid testing, but is instead accumulating overtime hours. This has led to criticism, as Brysch believes that this is irresponsible and that infections in homes need to be stopped immediately.
The situation is grave, with the number of outbreaks in care and nursing homes increasing. If the situation is not addressed urgently, it could be too late for many residents.
While the vaccination process is underway, it will take months to vaccinate all residents, home care recipients, and care workers. In the meantime, the need for rapid testing remains crucial to contain the spread of the virus in these facilities.
Reports suggest that the Bundeswehr and certain aid organizations have been mobilized for the immediate deployment to rapidly test nursing home residents in Germany. Specific names of the aid organizations involved were not detailed in the search results. The Bundeswehr is explicitly mentioned supporting rapid COVID testing in care facilities.
Despite these efforts, there is a pressing need for more swift action to ensure the safety of the residents in care and nursing homes. The fight against COVID-19 continues, and urgent attention must be given to protect the most vulnerable members of our society.
