UK Hochegg Recognized for Commitment to Self-Help Initiatives

The UK Hochegg healthcare facility has been acknowledged for its ongoing dedication to supporting self-help efforts, receiving a prestigious certification during the 15th Lower Austria Self-Help State Conference in St. Pölten. This recognition was presented in collaboration with other hospitals and partner organizations that have also renewed their commitment to fostering self-help within the healthcare system.

The renewed certification highlights the sustained quality and effectiveness of the cooperation established among the Lower Austrian Health and Social Fund (NÖGUS), the umbrella association for self-help in Lower Austria, and the Lower Austrian State Health Agency. Through continuous collaboration, these entities have worked to integrate self-help resources into hospital environments, strengthening the support network for patients and their families.

This initiative aims to provide patients with easier access to self-help groups, which can play a vital role in recovery and disease management. By promoting partnerships between healthcare providers and self-help organizations, the program ensures patients receive comprehensive care that extends beyond traditional medical treatment. Hospitals like UK Hochegg serve as key facilitators, offering infrastructure, information, and guidance to patients seeking peer support.

Since its inception, the self-help friendly hospital program has established clear standards and criteria for hospitals to meet in order to earn certification. These standards include measures to promote awareness of self-help offerings, active involvement of self-help groups in patient care processes, and ongoing evaluation of the partnership's impact. The process is overseen by the NÖGUS and the umbrella association, which conduct regular assessments to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.

The cooperation between the Lower Austrian State Health Agency, NÖGUS, and self-help organizations has resulted in a network that benefits both patients and healthcare professionals. Patients gain access to additional support options, while medical staff receive training and resources to better inform and guide patients toward relevant self-help groups. The program also encourages knowledge exchange between hospitals and self-help representatives, fostering best practices and innovation in patient-centered care.

UK Hochegg's renewed certification demonstrates its successful integration of these principles into everyday hospital operations. The facility has implemented systems for referring patients to self-help groups, providing informational materials, and facilitating meetings within hospital premises. Regular collaboration with self-help representatives ensures that patient needs are addressed holistically, contributing to improved health outcomes and patient satisfaction.

This recognition underscores the value of sustained partnerships in the healthcare sector and sets a benchmark for other institutions aiming to enhance the role of self-help in patient care. As the program continues to expand, more hospitals and organizations are expected to join the network, further strengthening the support system available to patients across the region.