Zum Wohle der Gesellschaft? Ein internationaler Vergleich von Ausgestaltung und Wirkung der berufsständischen Selbstverwaltung von Pflegekräften

Abstract

There has been a long-standing discussion on self-regulation of nurses in Germany. In 2016 the first federal state nursing council was finally founded. Against this background, the study explores the impact of self-regulation in nursing. The current legal frameworks of nurse regulation in England, Sweden and Germany are described and their strength and weaknesses discussed. Using economic theory of regulation as a framework, it analysed what impact the different forms of regulation have on the protection of nursing titles and functions as well as the quality of care. However, looking at the three countries it cannot be confirmed that self-regulation will imply policies in the interest of the profession rather than for the protection of the public. It is also outlined why the discussion on self-regulation of nurses in Germany is very unique. Most attention is given to the question whether the nursing profession will benefit from the introduction of nursing councils. The study concludes, that it should better be analysed, whether there are shortcomings with regard to the professional supervision or the protection of the public against inadequate care.