The role of outpatient urology in modern healthcare: European and Hungarian perspectives
DOI: 10.22591/magyurol.2025.4.benyom.182
Authors:
Benyó Mátyás dr., PhD
FertiMed BT, Debrecen
Summary
Outpatient urology has become a cornerstone of modern urological care, playing a key role in early diagnosis, prevention, cost-efficiency and patient-centered treatment. The European Association of Urology (EAU) Section of Outpatient and Office Urology (ESUO) functions as the European hub for ambulatory urological practice, aiming to improve care quality, support clinical standards, provide education and strengthen international collaboration in office-based urology.
A recent nationwide analysis from Germany by Professor Haas highlighted the effectiveness of a structured outpatient urology system based on individual and group practices, as well as regional networks. This model significantly reduces the burden on inpatient departments while maintaining high-quality care and improving accessibility, particularly in rural regions. The increasing number of female urologists and generational transitions also indicate shifting workforce dynamics in ambulatory care.
In Hungary, a milestone was achieved at the 2025 Annual Congress of the Hungarian Urological Association (MUT), where (upon invitation from Professor Péter Nyirády) an independent ESUO-session was organized for the first time. Lectures focused on office-based diagnostic strategies for lower urinary tract symptoms, stone disease prevention, urooncology, office oncology and one-day surgical procedures. This initiative demonstrates the growing recognition of outpatient urology within the national professional community.
Developing outpatient urology is not only an opportunity but a necessity for creating a sustainable, efficient and patient-centered urological care system in Europe and Hungary alike.