GÖG-Colloquium | „Patient first“ at Lillebaelt Hospital, Denmark

The Danish healthcare system is internationally recognized for its consistent focus on patient-centered care. In this presentation, Lonnie Sander Terkildsen, Head of Quality and Improvement of Lillebælt Hospital, outlines the principles and practices behind Denmark’s “Patient First” approach, which shapes clinical decision-making, organizational structures, and leadership strategies.

The session highlights the role of interdisciplinary teams – including nurses, physicians, allied health professionals, and healthcare managers – in delivering coordinated, high-quality care. Emphasis is placed on digital integration, participatory leadership, and continuous quality improvement as key drivers of system-wide excellence.

Margareta Bruckner will provide a co-commentary based on her recent visit to Lillebælt Hospital. She will share her impressions of the Danish model and reflect on its potential for adaptation within the Austrian healthcare context. Her insights will focus on transferable elements such as team-based care, leadership culture, and strategies for enhancing patient involvement and staff satisfaction.

This presentation provides relevant insights for professionals involved in healthcare delivery, education, and policy development who are working to strengthen patient-centered models in their own context.

Presenters
Lonnie Sander Terkildsen
Head of Quality and Improvement, Lillebaelt Hospital

Margareta Bruckner
Director of Nursing at the Public Hospital Barmherzige Brüder Salzburg; President of Austrian Nurses Directors Association

Welcoming and moderation 
Elisabeth Rappold
Austrian National Public Health Institute (Gesundheit Österreich GmbH)
Department for Health Professions and Long Term Care