The delegation trip was initiated and organized by EGW Gesellschaft für ein gesundes Wiesbaden in collaboration with the Wiesbaden–Istanbul/Fatih City Partnership Association (e.V.). The trip was sponsored by the Wiesbaden Health City Foundation. The goal was to generate initial momentum for new collaborations in the healthcare sector, gain a solid understanding of the training of healthcare professionals in Turkey, and gain insight into the healthcare system there. 

The eleven-member delegation, comprising representatives from Helios HSK Wiesbaden, St. Josef’s Hospital Wiesbaden, the Caritas Senior Housing and Care Association, the Caritas Association for the Diocese of Limburg, the Wiesbaden–Istanbul/Fatih, and the EGW Society for a Healthy Wiesbaden, visited various universities and hospitals, such as Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University and Acibadem Altunizade Hospital, as well as Bahcesehir University, Istinye University with Liv Hospital, and Altinbas University. The program also included a reception for the Wiesbaden delegation at the German Consulate General in Istanbul and an exchange with the nursing home operator Medila. 

The discussions provided insights into the local healthcare system and the training of nursing staff, therapists, and medical professionals, and highlighted significant potential for future collaboration at various levels. Contacts were established and momentum was generated, building on the city partnership between Istanbul/Fatih and the state capital of Wiesbaden, which has been successfully in place for many years. 

Many healthcare professionals working in Wiesbaden’s healthcare facilities were trained in Turkey. It is helpful for the operators of these facilities to understand where and how healthcare professionals are trained in Turkey so they can provide targeted support to these professionals as they begin their professional and personal lives in Wiesbaden. Given the growing shortage of skilled workers in the German healthcare system, sustainable strategies are needed to attract and retain professionals from abroad. This requires comprehensive language training, recognition of credentials, professional preparation, and cultural integration. 

The shared goal: to create professional and personal opportunities for qualified healthcare professionals from abroad in Wiesbaden and to further expand the “Bridge for Health” between Wiesbaden and Istanbul. To this end, the cooperation partners from Istanbul are invited to Wiesbaden for an in-depth exchange.