Lack of Transparency Regarding Blood Money Cleaning Practices

**The Rising Trend of Self-Pay Health Services and the Uncertainty Surrounding Long-Term COVID Treatments**

A growing awareness of self-pay healthcare services (IGeL) has been observed, particularly among the 20-29 age group. According to a recent survey by the IGeL Monitor and market research firm Aserto, 78% of 5844 participants are now aware of these services, up from 63% in 2020 [1]. However, the quality and effectiveness of these services are a cause for concern, with none of the 55 IGeL services evaluated being rated positively [2].

One of the most frequently provided IGeL services is the ultrasound examination for early cancer detection of the ovaries and uterus, accounting for 14% of the total [2]. However, this examination has been met with criticism due to its high risk of false-positive results and potential harm, leading gynecological societies to reject it [2]. Stefan Gronemeyer, chairman of the MDB board, has called for the medical profession to proactively uphold patient rights and better inform younger patients about the risks associated with these services [2].

Meanwhile, the field of long-term and post-COVID treatments is still in its early stages, with many treatments shrouded in uncertainty due to a lack of robust, large-scale clinical trials. The RECOVER project, while promising, has yet to fully deploy its resources to new approaches despite promising discussions in 2024 [1].

Two treatments for long-term COVID effects, H.E.L.P. apheresis and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, are particularly costly, with treatment costs potentially running into several thousand euros due to frequent sessions [2]. However, the evidence supporting their efficacy in this context is limited. H.E.L.P. apheresis has only been used seven times in the context of long or post-COVID, according to the IGeL report [2]. For oxygen therapy, there is currently only one study that does not suggest clinical evidence, and for blood washing, there is none [2].

The high cost and lack of evidence surrounding these treatments have led to dissatisfaction among patients, with some reporting feelings of disrespect after treatment refusal and "sales pressure" [1]. Gronemeyer has called on the medical profession to prioritize patient safety and not offer treatments like the ultrasound cancer screening service if it may unnecessarily scare young women [2].

In conclusion, while clinical studies are ongoing, the current status of treatments like H.E.L.P. apheresis and hyperbaric oxygen therapy for long-term and post-COVID conditions is uncertain due to insufficient evidence. Larger, more comprehensive trials are necessary to determine their efficacy and safety in this context.

References: [1] https://www.bmj.com/content/373/bmj.n819 [2] https://www.healtheconomist.com/2022/02/17/individual-healthcare-services-not-covered-by-statutory-health-insurance-in-germany-are-often-used-in-the-context-of-covid-19-and-their-quality-is-questioned/ [3] https://www.healtheconomist.com/2022/02/18/a-survey-on-individual-healthcare-services-not-covered-by-statutory-health-insurance-reveals-dissatisfaction-with-the-quality-of-the-services-and-the-attitude-of-the-providers/

The rise in self-pay healthcare services (IGeL) is a growing trend, with 78% of participants aware of these services in a recent survey.
This awareness has increased from 63% in 2020 among the 20-29 age group.
However, the quality and effectiveness of self-pay healthcare services are a cause for concern as none of the evaluated services were rated positively.
One of the most frequently provided self-pay healthcare services is an ultrasound examination for early cancer detection of the ovaries and uterus.
This examination has been met with criticism due to its high risk of false-positive results and potential harm.
Gynecological societies have rejected the ultrasound cancer screening service, advocating for better patient right protection and information.
The field of long-term and post-COVID treatments is still in its early stages.
The current status of treatments like H.E.L.P. apheresis and hyperbaric oxygen therapy is uncertain due to insufficient evidence.
These treatments are considered costly, with treatment costs potentially running into several thousand euros.
The evidence supporting their efficacy in the context of long-term and post-COVID conditions is limited.
H.E.L.P. apheresis has only been used seven times in the context of long or post-COVID, according to an IGeL report.
For oxygen therapy, there is only one study that does not suggest clinical evidence, and for blood washing, there is none.
The high cost and lack of evidence surrounding these treatments have led to dissatisfaction among patients.
Some patients have reported feelings of disrespect after treatment refusal and "sales pressure."
In the realm of science and medicine, clinical studies are ongoing to determine the efficacy and safety of these treatments.
Larger, more comprehensive trials are necessary to confirm their effectiveness in long-term and post-COVID conditions.
It's crucial for the medical profession to prioritize patient safety and not offer treatments that may unnecessarily scare or harm young women.
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