Current analyses by the Scientific Institute of the AOK based on billing data from AOK insured persons show considerable differences in the complete prostatectomy due to cancer: In the best clinics, the complication rate is 6.4 percent, in the worst 23 percent. The results of the individual hospitals are now available in the AOK Health Navigator.

The evaluation includes 17,600 cases from 2021 to 2023 in 189 clinics, with one-year follow-up. Patient characteristics such as age and previous illnesses are taken into account for a fair comparison. Blood transfusions within 30 days (2.9 percent), unplanned follow-up operations in the first year (6.8 percent) and other complications such as sepsis or kidney failure (5.6 percent) were evaluated.

A model calculation shows that 480 complications could have been avoided if cases from below-average clinics had been treated in better ones. This could reduce suffering and costs. As a criterion for choosing a clinic, certification as a prostate cancer center by the German Cancer Society, which is displayed in the navigator, is recommended.

In 2024, around 34,700 radical prostatectomies took place nationwide. The analyses only detect complications up to one year, not incontinence or impotence.

In addition, quality results were unlocked for twelve other treatments, including hip and knee implants, gallbladder removals and cardiac catheterizations. These are based on the procedure for quality assurance with routine data and can be viewed in the navigator.

Further information:

AOK Health Navigator: Find doctors, clinics & midwives | AOK

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

Gender Notice. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple naming and gendered designations are used for better readability. ected.