[Ambulatory physician performances in health counseling--possibilities,organization and payment]

Within the scope of the increasing importance of health promotion and prevention, health consultation plays an important role in out patient medical care provided by panel doctors. Nevertheless, there are some uncertainties regarding possibilities, management and payment of health promotion and health consultation, performed by physicians in outpatient care. The statutory basis laid down in the German Social Code is analysed with regard to its significance to health consultation and the possibilities of health consultation are demonstrated. This includes in particular the so-called "Check-up", maternity care, family planning and consultation of the diabetes patients. The importance of preventive medicine for the prophylaxis and therapy of particular diseases is discussed using the example of nutrition and diet consultation. In this regard, health economic issues are as important as the organization in the doctor's office. Likewise, the function of the physician as a co-ordinator is commented upon. On this occasion, the advantages and the necessity of co-operation with members of other health professions are pointed out, and corresponding types of co-operation are discussed.