Demographics of General Practitioners in Ghent
Demographics of General Practitioners in Ghent
1. How many GP practices are affiliated?
There are 164 GP practices in Ghent:
48% solo practices
45% group practices
7% community health centres (WGCs)
2. What is the age distribution of the doctors?
Youngest GP: 27 years
Oldest active GP: 77 years
36 doctors are of retirement age (67+), but are still working
22% of GPs are older than 67
Only 1 doctor effectively retired in 2025
3. How many new doctors and GP trainees (HAIOs) were active?
In 2025:
22 newly starting GPs
65 HAIOs active in the HVG region
One in two GP practices is a solo practice. HAP.GENT, a GP practice located near the Citadel Park and Ghent-Sint-Pieters railway station in the city centre of Ghent, is also a solo practice. What are the advantages of a solo practice?
A solo GP practice offers several clear advantages, both for the doctor and for the patient. Some key benefits are:
1. Personal care and continuity
Patients always see the same GP. This strengthens the doctor–patient relationship, ensures better knowledge of the medical history and often leads to more targeted and efficient care.
2. Fast and direct communication
No internal referrals or consultations are needed: decisions can be taken immediately, appointments can be scheduled more easily, and patients know exactly who to contact.
3. High degree of autonomy for the doctor
The GP independently determines the organisation of the practice, consultation length, working hours, investments and care vision, without having to compromise with partners.
4. Low threshold for patients
A fixed point of contact in a small-scale practice (such as in Ghent city centre, near the Citadel Park and Sint-Pieters Station) creates a homely and accessible atmosphere, which is particularly important for elderly and chronically ill patients.
5. Efficient organisation
Fewer consultation structures and less administration than in group practices; processes are often simpler and more flexible.
6. Discretion and confidentiality
Medical information remains within one doctor–patient relationship, which enhances the sense of privacy.
7. Strong local integration
Solo practices are often closely connected to their neighbourhood and know their patient population very well, which benefits prevention and follow-up.
8. Continuity of care during absence
At the Ghent solo practice HAP.GENT, continuity of care is ensured by an external GP from the local area.
In summary, a solo practice combines proximity, trust, continuity and personalised care with organisational independence.
Always welcome at HAP.GENT, solo GP practice in Ghent (by appointment).