Telemedicine fills gaps for eye doctors in the Altmark - Telemedicine Pilot in Saxony-Anhalt Eases Eye Specialist Shortage
Saxony-Anhalt is facing a growing shortage of eye specialists, with seven out of 159.5 ophthalmologist positions currently unfilled. The situation is particularly severe in the Altmarkkreis Salzwedel district, where 3.5 full-time roles remain vacant. In response, a telemedicine pilot project launched in Salzwedel in 2024 aims to bridge the gap—without requiring an on-site doctor at all times.
The pilot scheme operates through a team of medical assistants, master opticians, and opticians who examine patients in person. Data collected during appointments is then sent to remote ophthalmologists for assessment. Dr. med. Thomas Müller leads the telemedicine initiative, ensuring patients receive results, follow-up care, and referrals for further tests without delay.
Roughly one in three eye doctors in the Altmark region is over 60, raising concerns about future staffing levels. The state has allocated around €2 million to fund the project until late 2026, with the aim of integrating telemedicine into standard care by 2027. Early feedback from patients has been strongly positive, highlighting faster diagnoses and improved access to specialist expertise.
Telemedicine also offers broader benefits, such as earlier treatment interventions and more consistent care, regardless of a patient's location. The model could serve as a blueprint for addressing shortages in other underserved areas.
The telemedicine project in Salzwedel provides a temporary solution to the region's ophthalmologist shortage. If successful, it may become a permanent part of healthcare delivery by 2027. The state's investment and patient approval suggest the approach could expand to other districts facing similar challenges.
