Why a wheelchair user needs a wheelchair
- Please help me in my fight with AOK Nord-West and LWL
These are the uncensored comments that have been posted on www.change.org/AOKverweigertRollstuhl in response to my petition. This will give you an idea of how society views this issue.
Anna Schwickert
February 17, 2022
There is an increased real need that is not being met.
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Robert Haas
February 17, 2022...
because BOTH the AOK and social welfare agencies urgently need to be taught a lesson.
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Monika Röher
February 17, 2022
Unfair and embarrassing for such a rich country.
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Leyla Cantürk
February 17, 2022
I sincerely hope that these people can retain their joy of life and that we can be proud of people who, despite everything, try to be content with things that others don't even realize they can be content with. I hope that these people will be helped.
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Michael Kolodzig
February 17, 2022
This is a disgrace for a rich country where everyone talks about inclusion.
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Monika Ellerbeck
February 17, 2022
I am also confined to a wheelchair. And I know how this man feels. The whole thing really scares me. I am currently in a rehabilitation program and notice every day how much I can no longer do. And I need more assistance than I currently have. It cannot be that cost bearers refuse to provide important assistance.
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Sissy Seifert
February 17, 2022
It's impossible to exclude someone just because they're poor and suffering from illness. It makes me so angry.
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Sandra Schneider
February 17, 2022
I'm affected by this issue in my own family and know what obstacles it creates.
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Andrea Pfund
February 17, 2022
Because we are also at the mercy of health insurance companies and government agencies. My son is also disabled, and I could write a book about the sometimes mindless behavior of the authorities.
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Martina König
February 16, 2022
Participation in social life is a fundamental right.
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Alexandra Daum
February 16, 2022
This system is sick and makes people sick. The main thing is that management rakes in enough money...
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Renate Stein
February 16, 2022
I find it unbearable how, in this “best Germany” we have ever lived in, bureaucratic decisions deny a disabled person greater mobility and thus equal participation in social life. The often-cited inclusion seems to be a long way off when it comes to health insurance companies paying. It's a disgrace, these decisions made from behind a desk, far removed from real life, based solely on rules and regulations. It's a disgrace for this supposedly rich and open society.
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Rainer Reichling
February 16, 2022
It's almost unbearable to read something like this in our country, which is rich despite everything!
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Beate Gerdon
February 16, 2022
“Human dignity is inviolable.” That applies to all people, with and without disabilities! More and more often, money seems to take precedence over dignity. So much money is spent on health insurance buildings, for example, but when it comes to people in need, savings are often made. Often, however, it is also down to the case worker.
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Marion Reiter
February 16, 2022
It cannot be right that a disabled person is harassed and possibly unable to work without the necessary mobility, thus becoming a “cost factor,” just because an AOK employee wants to make a name for themselves. Human dignity is inviolable – at least in theory.
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Heike Hojer
February 16, 2022
After my mother passed away, I wanted to return a foldable, almost unused wheelchair in addition to a fully functional electric wheelchair. Since it had already been written off, I was told to keep it. I didn't need it, so I had the problem of getting rid of it. The senior citizens' home didn't want it. In the end, I was able to give it to someone in need through a series of connections. Selling it was against my morals. So much for not allowing someone to have something on the one hand and refusing to take back an almost unused wheelchair on the other. Try to understand that. Regardless of the fact that you need one, this approach is contrary to sustainability. I call this an abuse of power because there are no reasons for refusal (according to the description). Perhaps these are just bureaucratic hurdles that the clerks themselves cannot overcome, even with the best will in the world. In the end, it doesn't matter because the result is irrelevant to real life.
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Margarete Wiedenhofer
February 16, 2022
People don't matter anymore, how awful... but maybe Mr. Klei can contact the VDK. I've met some very committed members there who are really committed to the rights of people with disabilities... https://www.vdk.de/deutschland/pages/der_vdk/9958/was_heiszt_vdk
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Michaela Wiezorek
February 16, 2022
This is completely unacceptable.
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Angela Leichenich
February 16, 2022
I find it arrogant and haughty of the service providers to make such unrealistic decisions. They should try putting themselves in Mr. Klei's shoes for just two days.
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Monika Gradl
February 16, 2022
I myself am chronically ill and now have to go to court for the second time against my health insurance company (which is supposedly so humane and anthroposophical!) because they refused to give me painkillers (I won the case!) and now because they won't let me change my dentist, who, according to an MDK report, has done everything wrong with my teeth and cannot be corrected. Anyone who is old, sick, and has little money (disabled people, chronically ill people, pensioners) is deliberately starved by the specialized legal departments of the health insurance companies. You can complain to the supervisory authority for health insurance companies, the Federal Social Security Office, and involve the VDK, but you have to be a member. We need to gather strength, support, and start a petition for the abolition of DRGs and the separation of private and statutory health insurance companies. Please consider signing the petition at change.org. You have my support!
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Jakob Duden
February 16, 2022
Inclusion is important
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Thomas Schalow
February 16, 2022
Refusing a wheelchair to a wheelchair user... is completely unacceptable. The AOK official responsible should be dismissed, if only for the psychological stress caused to the wheelchair user.
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Willi Esser
February 16, 2022
I don't think the AOK's behavior is right!
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Christine Belz
February 16, 2022
I have friends who are in a similar situation!
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Grisildis Schilling
February 16, 2022
Everyone needs social contact; decisions should not be made from behind a desk.
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Marion Gebhardt
February 16, 2022
I absolutely cannot understand how a health insurance company can treat disabled people like this.
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Sabine Nisch
February 16, 2022
My husband is affected himself and is dependent on three mobility aids, including an active wheelchair, a motorized electric wheelchair, and an electric mobility scooter. The rocky road to obtaining multiple approvals was certainly not easy. We know what it means to have to fight the cost bearers. This change in provision is urgently needed and must be approved now, without further delay.
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Jana Kaufmann
February 16, 2022
Every person has rights.
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Juliane Bojahr
February 16, 2022
Participation is a human right!
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Rene Drieselmann
February 16, 2022
Because it's the right thing to do!
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Verena Enzmann
February 16, 2022
Do we really have to make life even harder for disabled people than it already is? I don't get it. Are health insurance company employees sitting on the money? Do they get a cut if they approve as little as possible? Unbelievable.
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Friedhelm Schulz
February 16, 2022
The adaptive wheelchair is urgently needed to get to doctors and therapists and to be able to move around in his apartment!
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Corinna Wagner
February 16, 2022
This happens to other disabled people every day, over and over again. It's time for the legislature to impose sanctions on the authorities.
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Wolfgang Gärtner
February 16, 2022
Because it is necessary.
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Sonja Zoder
February 16, 2022
This is unbelievable, this man needs help. AOK and LWL, shame on you!
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Peter Thiele
February 16, 2022
I can relate to this very well, as I am a wheelchair user myself. What has been described here is a huge disgrace for the so-called SOCIAL STATE of Germany!
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Hannelore Yaw-Teamer
February 16, 2022
He needs help.
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Christine Parmer
February 16, 2022
It's unbelievable... we should all be able to get the best possible care... Even if we don't all have private insurance... this man needs a good wheelchair... It's sad that this has to be so controversial.
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Margit G. Berger
February 16, 2022
Let's join forces with this petition to help Matthias Klei get a new wheelchair. It's incomprehensible how stubborn the authorities are being here: this cannot be allowed to happen. He needs the wheelchair and should get it as soon as possible. Let's all help. Thank you.
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Christiane Bogusch
February 16, 2022
What an unacceptable response from the health insurance company. Haven't they heard of the right to participation? I wish you continued strength in your fight for the necessary adapted wheelchair!
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Sylvia Assmann
February 16, 2022
A wheelchair that has lasted 18 years is evidence of careful use. It is only natural that it should be replaced. How many of us have driven our cars for 18 years?
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Ines Kloss
February 16, 2022
I am shocked that people who are already disadvantaged, whatever the circumstances, have to expend so much energy to assert their rights. It's scandalous! In Germany, we have the right to participate in society!!!
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Melanie Pennartz
February 16, 2022
Of course he needs this wheelchair.
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Joachim Rauße
February 16, 2022
I think it's right that everyone who needs help gets the necessary aids so that they can participate in normal life.
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Hildegard Meander
February 16, 2022
Such behavior is unacceptable.
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Heidi Riegel
February 16, 2022
From my experience with disabled people, I know how important a small, lightweight wheelchair is for them. Friends can also load it into their cars.
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Brigitte Betzel-Haarnagel
February 16, 2022
Health insurance companies should be ashamed of themselves for refusing to provide necessary aids and treatments. These battles must come to an end.
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Ulrich Spangenberger
February 16, 2022
Much more must be done to ensure that “associations” such as AOK fulfill their obligations. The employees there must learn that they are obliged to help people and that their time is not just for drinking coffee. The medical service must also become financially independent of the health insurance companies. Its decisions must be legally binding.
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Margitta Miatkowski
February 16, 2022
I would like to ask on her behalf for this wheelchair, which is vital for her! I cannot understand the health insurance company's behavior in this case! I am happy to sign your petition!
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Holger Schneider
February 16, 2022
Because I know what it's like not to fit the norm. You can be anything except sick. In the end, it's all about money. Profit is above everything else. They paid for and approved the wheelchair. If the person were rich, everything would be done.
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Ulrike Kas
February 16, 2022
I find it unbelievable what is happening in this country. This story is just one example of how people treat each other. Sad. Everyone can do something. Signing this petition is the least we can do....
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Markus Obermeier
February 16, 2022
It is unacceptable to deny someone a necessary aid.
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Melanie Urban
February 16, 2022
I am signing because I cannot understand why the AOK pays for homeopathic nonsense but not for this wheelchair. It is simply incomprehensible.
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Mili Mendez
February 16, 2022
Everyone should be able to live a self-determined life and not be dictated to by an institution.
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February 16, 2022
It is incomprehensible that the AOK makes such inhumane and exclusionary decisions. I have experienced this myself with the AOK and also with the LWL.... and I am shocked that nothing has changed in 2022. Everyone should consider that it could happen to them.... at any time.... that our laws still allow this behavior... is that really possible.....? He needs a wheelchair as soon as possible.... It should be noted that medical aids and appliances account for only 3% of the total budget of health insurance companies.... This is saving in the wrong place....
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Katrin Pretzel
February 16, 2022
I am in favor of an integrated life.
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Birgit Sasowski
February 16, 2022
Nowadays, it's completely normal to have to fight hard for everything. Everything is dragged out, everyone is left out in the cold with their problems. Service providers don't care if you're in mortal danger or even at risk of dying – it's all normal. Private health insurance is no different; they refuse to pay for things that are essential for survival. It's the same everywhere in other areas of life too. This is the result of corporations becoming too powerful and only caring about profitability and profit. People are just a nuisance or, at best, cash cows. Services have long since ceased to exist. You are not alone. It's good that you have gone public. Keep it up, keep fighting, you deserve that wheelchair.
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Sibylle Hofter
February 16, 2022
How much does one of those cost?
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Patricia Michl
February 16, 2022
I want to make it possible for people with disabilities to live a self-determined life by law. Participation and involvement outside a radius of 1000 m should also be possible. A person who is always in a wheelchair should be able to get a second wheelchair of a different type. People at the AOK don't just have one pair of shoes to wear throughout their lives. Here, cost savings are being sought at the expense of the physically and financially disadvantaged. A clear NO!
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Carola Nacke
February 16, 2022
The right to participate in life still applies!
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Kerstin Hummler
February 15, 2022
I know the problems with wheelchairs in everyday life. My son has two.
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Carsten Huse
February 15, 2022
Because I find it inhumane that a person in need of help is denied mobility. There are so many unnecessary things that are approved that no one controls. I find the way this is being handled inhumane and shameful.
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Beate Preissner
I want to show solidarity
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A. Maerz
February 15, 2022
This is unacceptable. Everything is done for asylum seekers, but here in this country, people who need help are ignored.
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February 15, 2022
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Michael Kröger
February 15, 2022
This story moves me.
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Rudolf Lemm
February 15, 2022
It's degrading to have to fight for a wheelchair!
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Evelyn Stricker
If someone can only participate in public life and our society through a wheelchair, it must be approved. Human rights!!!
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Anke Haub
February 15, 2022
I cannot understand why people with disabilities are being held back like this. We want inclusion, but a new wheelchair after 18 years is too much to ask?
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Katharina Naumann
February 15, 2022
Essential basic equipment must be guaranteed.
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Evelin Marx
February 15, 2022
I admire your fight, keep it up, you can do it.
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Heike Callies
February 15, 2022
You can apply for a 6-wheel electric wheelchair, which is also very maneuverable indoors. You can also apply for an active wheelchair from the employment agency if you need it for work. The list of medical aids also states that various wheelchairs can be provided if they are used for different purposes. I received all of these wheelchairs from my health insurance company.
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Marika Blümer
February 15, 2022
In the fight against COVID-19, some money is being thrown out the window. There should still be money available to repair or replace wheelchairs!
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Eva Haag
February 15, 2022
Mobility is a human right, and sometimes different aids are needed. It's that simple, dear AOK!
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Gunda Berdelmann
February 15, 2022
It's unbelievable how people are being treated.
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Apolonia Schrader
February 15, 2022
It's necessary.
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Friederike Schleusener
February 15, 2022
I am signing because I was in a wheelchair for a short time and know exactly what it means not to be able to live your life independently, and it is presumptuous to take this opportunity away from someone!
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Rosemarie Schachinger
February 15, 2022
I am signing in the hope that I can contribute to the success of the petition. This is not about profit, but about necessity.
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Petra Quilitz
February 15, 2022
Money rules the world, is all I can say, along with inhumane bureaucracy.
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Andreas Gerold
February 15, 2022...
I am committed to accessibility in Bad Driburg.
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Susanne Flieger
February 15, 2022
I am signing because I find the investment for the AOK ridiculous given a life expectancy of 18 years. Giving up all the activities made possible by both wheelchairs will have a very, very negative effect on my mental health... Just the fear of losing them... It is inhumane and also much more expensive for the health insurance company in the long run... Unimaginable! Please keep fighting fearlessly!
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Antje Neumann
February 15, 2022
Because I am also insured with the AOK and would like to see it do its job with my contributions and pay for aids for those who need them.
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Michael Lauterbach
February 15, 2022
I am signing because it is very important to me that people with disabilities can participate in social life without major restrictions and that the authorities stop putting unnecessary obstacles in their way.
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Alicia Guignet
February 15, 2022
I know from my own experience what it is like to be seriously ill and cut off from so-called “normal” life... A modern, social society should not treat its sick people like this... Where remedies can be provided so easily, it should certainly not be financial constraints that prevent those affected from returning to everyday life and a social environment.
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Christine Dachsel
February 15, 2022
I feel compassion here. How can it be possible to exclude someone who is in such a terrible situation?
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Birgit Müller
February 15, 2022
Because I find it unacceptable that people have to fight for everything when they are ill and are sometimes portrayed as patients who are just imagining everything.
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Anie Kollberg
February 15, 2022
Every person has the right and the entitlement to participate in public life. This is also enshrined in law. This also applies to people with disabilities and/or impairments. It is also enshrined in law that a disability is a variant of human life and therefore participation in public life, as well as the means to do so, MUST NOT BE DENIED OR WITHHELD by public authorities. Think about this later in life Best regards, Mélanie Scharte
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Ursel Berndt
February 15, 2022
This man must be helped.
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Dietrich Haubner
February 15, 2022
For social equality for disadvantaged people.
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Friederike Pfannenmüller
February 15, 2022
Mr. Klei's argument is transparent and more than convincing. Why the AOK refuses to replace the adaptive wheelchair after 18 years is completely beyond me.
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Regina Miksch
February 15, 2022
Independence is so important for those affected.
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Olaf Schulze
February 15, 2022
... I know several wheelchair users and “our society” must finally take participation seriously...
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Anna Beller
February 15, 2022
Because I myself have a severely disabled child and know what it's like to fight for everything.
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Hendrikus van der Leer
February 15, 2022
Because I have come to know the plight of these people through decades of working in disability care, especially with people who are as intelligent and willing to work as Matthias obviously is.
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February 15, 2022
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Rudolf Eberle
February 15, 2022
I can only support this. It's obvious that disabled people need more work and more things. An institution like the AOK should see it as its duty to support them.
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Sylvia Waldmann-Hahn
February 15, 2022
It's just awful...
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Karl_Heinz Schreiber
February 15, 2022
Because it is calculated by the health insurance companies that out of 100 rejections, approximately 66 percent will be satisfied with that. The result can be clearly seen in the annual reports of the health insurance companies. However, the health insurance sector also produces a disproportionately high amount of medical aids, which are financed by health insurance contributions. In the long term, the only thing that will help here is public transparency, e.g., on the Internet, where names are named.
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Christoph Schwebke
February 15, 2022
Stop, do something different. Now.
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Ulrike Alfes
February 15, 2022
Perhaps the decision-makers will take a look at this great video and consider whether they, as people affected, e.g. after an accident, would find what is currently defined as “participation” acceptable. And woe betide them if they feel even the slightest desire to go anywhere!
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Chris Goetz
February 15, 2022...
Life deserves respect.
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Thorsten Karl
February 15, 2022
I am directly affected. I consider the requirement to obtain a second, more mobile wheelchair to be a given.
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Lorenz Pin
February 15, 2022
Because it is unacceptable that the AOK is flouting Article 3(3) with impunity and is therefore acting unconstitutionally.
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Susanne Hermes
February 15, 2022
I worked as an assistant for disabled people for several years and can only confirm that it is common practice for authorities and health insurance companies to reject claims for benefits in an incomprehensibly absurd manner! It's high time something changed!
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Tanja Bröxkes
February 15, 2022
The whole thing is just sad. They act as if they have to pay for the aids themselves. And this from a health insurance company that has some of the most customers. Do they really believe that people choose to live like this? All you want to do is live...and they put obstacles in your way. Poor Germany!!!
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Dr. Oswald Ort
February 15, 2022
I'm signing because his life is hard enough even with all the aids he has.
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Annemarie Reiche
February 15, 2022
I'm signing because it's inhumane to exclude people because of a disability. It's frightening what's possible in this country and what you have to fight for here. I hope the wheelchair is delivered soon!
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Helga Ramm
February 15, 2022
Something has to be done; this is unacceptable!!!
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Dieter Scharf
February 15, 2022
AOK = armchair bureaucrats with no brains or feelings, that's why!!!
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Manuela Möller
February 15, 2022
Where is the right to participate in active life?????
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Hilke Faber
February 15, 2022
These self-righteous and narrow-minded “decision-makers” need to be given a very firm slap on the wrist. Or sent straight to hell. It cannot be right that contributions are increased, resulting in a reduction in my pension. (It's only €3 and change). And those in need are left behind. I think this could apply to all health insurance companies. SHAME ON YOU!!!
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Christel Obenaus
February 15, 2022
Dear Matthias Klei, thank you for this wonderful video, I laughed heartily!!! I have been physically disabled for 62 years and have the same problem. It took me 3 court cases (within 4 years) to get a new drive for my little E-fix. The wheelchair itself is over 20 years old and is falling apart. I didn't get it. My Salsa R is also too bulky and too heavy for transport and medical practices, etc. It's hell! We disabled people are treated like we're in the Third Reich. It never stops. I'm just as exhausted as you are; the constant struggles are wearing me down. I live in BW. Best regards, hugs.
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Ralf Lange
February 15, 2022
It's necessary
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Sonja Heilberger
February 15, 2022
I agree: it's not the fault of insurance payers that their money is being misused. Shame on you, health insurance companies and “inclusion offices”! I don't give a damn about your lip service to inclusion!
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Doris Rammrath
February 15, 2022
It has to be done
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Kim Altmeyer
February 15, 2022
Because I wish Mr. Klei support and, above all, success, with great respect for his life's work.
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Ulrike Burkhardt
February 15, 2022
Disabled people should be able to participate in life even if they want to be mobile. It goes without saying that this adaptive wheelchair is absolutely necessary.
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Rolf Walter
February 15, 2022
This is probably once again the typical behavior of an organization (AOK) that is ultimately financed by many contributors. That probably pays for quite a few boardroom chairs. You could buy at least a dozen of these wheelchairs for their annual salaries! And then they skimp on someone who needs it. It's unbelievable. What would the insurance company do if it were a migrant with a serious injury? I'm sure that would go smoothly.
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Ralf Horn
February 15, 2022
I can well imagine the statement from the cost bearer... Flat rate... Overprovision 冷 The medical supply store that is not motivated to fight...etc.? Can you overprovision a person so that they can live their life independently??? No...and even if you could...give this person what they need!!!!!!
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Anke Dahm
February 15, 2022
...People with disabilities should not experience disadvantages that can simply be eliminated. It is quite clear that two wheelchairs are needed here. What is it that the AOK cannot understand?
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Renate Gemsjäger
February 15, 2022
It's unbelievable how disabled people are treated, who have to fight their way through life and show iron willpower to be able to cope with their everyday lives as best they can with a lot of effort. Money is spent on so many unnecessary things, but a new wheelchair, no matter how urgently needed, is not approved??? I can't understand it!
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Anja Hess
February 15, 2022
The employee or employees should be ashamed of themselves! Denying a person who is proven to be dependent on an aid is simply not worthy of the name “health insurance.” Shame on you!
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Gunhild Missner
February 15, 2022
Health insurance companies have a job to do, not just collect money.
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Ines Jürgensmeier
February 15, 2022
Human dignity is inviolable!!!!
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Miriam Schumacher
February 15, 2022
Health insurance companies should take care of what they are there for. It is unacceptable that a person in need of help is denied assistance. The AOK should be ashamed of itself.
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Andrea Christiansen
February 15, 2022
.... because this man is simply right and the treatment of disabled people in Germany is unspeakable. I have experienced something similar in my personal life with a disabled child who was repeatedly denied a wheelchair.
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Andrea Bernath
February 15, 2022
You cannot treat the weakest members of society like this. I am a nurse and am very happy to support this petition.
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Constantin Bartning
February 15, 2022
I am signing because I find the cause plausible and justified, and unfortunately I am familiar with the behavior described by the AOK from other cases.
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Sven Drobar
February 15, 2022
It is incomprehensible to deny a person in need such an important aid.
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Karl-Heinz Günther
February 15, 2022
Because I believe that disabled people also have the right to a normal life as far as possible, and the health insurance company should reconsider and approve it.
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Günter Stritzinger
February 15, 2022
...the health insurance company should be held liable for its misjudgments, and there should also be personnel consequences!
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Tanja E.
February 15, 2022
It is unacceptable that health insurance companies only collect money, but when people are clearly suffering and need support, they refuse to pay. However, the AOK is well known for how poorly it treats its policyholders.
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Udo Hager
February 15, 2022
Unbelievable that a disabled person is being denied a urgently needed wheelchair by his health insurance company, effectively depriving him of his independence. This takes away his entire social environment. The wheelchair makes him mobile and independent, but the AOK says NO. What is this all about?
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Sibylle Kinzer
February 15, 2022
I'm signing because I think we need to give people like Matthias all the help we can to make his life easier and more worth living!
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Heiko Lehmann
February 15, 2022
I think it's crazy that health insurance companies and other insurers are paying their board members tens of thousands of dollars while cutting back on people who really need help.
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Heinz Buchner
February 15, 2022
I also wonder how it can be that a person has to fight so hard for his right to participate in society, when it is his legal entitlement?! (And beyond that, is it not scandalous that the state and institutions are hindering a person in this way because of a disability, instead of clearing the way for him, which is what they are there for – just make it possible for him to live a carefree life! These are simple decisions! And it's fun!) I fully support Matthias Klei's cause and ask the recipients of the petition to simply put themselves in his situation – then it will quickly become clear what the right decision is.
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Anna Ebenbeck
February 15, 2022
I also wonder how it can be that a person has to fight so hard for his right to participate in society when it is his legal right! (And beyond that, is it not scandalous that the state and institutions are hindering a person in this way because of a disability, instead of clearing the way for him, which is what they are there for? Just make it possible for him to live a carefree life! These are simple decisions! And it's fun!) I fully support Matthias Klei's cause and ask the recipients of the petition to simply put themselves in his situation – then it will quickly become clear what the right decision is.
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Valeria Jurtschik
February 15, 2022
Independence is important
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Annika Lepppert
February 15, 2022
It should be a matter of course to help this man. The person who is supposed to approve the wheelchair should try walking with their legs tied together to see how “easy” it is. 24 hours as a self-test should be enough.
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Stefanie Reininger
February 15, 2022
Unfortunately, many people have to fight this battle because supposedly no double provision is necessary. I was lucky because I couldn't get my large electric wheelchair into my car at the time, nor could I get to various doctors and therapists. One step and nothing works. Submit a statement of costs to your insurance company if you need a transport service for every appointment, etc. The organization “Mobil mit Behinderung” (Mobile with a Disability) helped me a lot. The board is also very politically active. VdK might also be able to help you. I'll keep my fingers crossed that it works out.
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Matthias Quinzer
February 15, 2022
Why health insurance companies refuse to provide such services is still a mystery to me. Every person has the right to a happy life! But some people don't even grant that to others.
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Cornelia Gliese
February 15, 2022
I know from my own experience that important aids are denied, even though every “normal” person can see that they are necessary! To K.! This is an undignified way to treat us humans!
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Laura-Julienne Burzinsky
February 15, 2022
Because I know what it's like to fight with health insurance companies and I think it's absolutely disgusting to deny this man the everyday assistance he needs.
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Thomas Reich
February 15, 2022
Get a lawyer!
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Monika Altenbeck
February 15, 2022
Many people have to fight these battles alone or with the help of their relatives! Such misguided decisions not only disable people, they also discriminate against them in our society!
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Renate Graf
February 15, 2022
I am signing because I don't want people with disabilities to be marginalized any longer.
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Julia Eden
February 15, 2022
How shabby to string the applicant along like this after the current wheelchair has been in use for 18 YEARS! In my opinion, this is a case for “Monitor,” “Report,” or other TV magazines. May those responsible for delaying the decision see reason!
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Sonja Barth
February 15, 2022
Our health insurance companies are nothing more than benefit denial institutions. It is shameful how cynically the insurance companies treat their members. When you need them, they abandon you.
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Sarah Machacek
February 15, 2022
Because it's beneath contempt.
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Roland Vitzhum
February 15, 2022
I am signing because severely disabled people must be treated the same as healthy people. The “corona curse” is already causing too much damage.
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Haluk Karaosman
February 15, 2022
None of the health laws should take away people's right to life! Live and let live.
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Bernhard Schormann
February 15, 2022
Because I find it impossible that something like this is still being practiced in our rich country! It's terrible!
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Sophie von Wolfersdorff
February 15, 2022
In addition to the physical strain, there is also the worry of being “switched off” by the failure of the wheelchair and excluded from participating in social life.
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Mathias Lehmann
February 15, 2022
It's terrible that our government is giving away billions of euros to other countries or economic refugees without asking us, while the “normal” German population is seeing their social benefits, pensions, etc. cut or remain low. This cannot go on—that's why I support you.
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Manfred Gerwing
February 15, 2022
Hello Matthias, as a caregiver for my severely physically disabled sister, I recently experienced exactly the same thing with AOK Nordwest. After an appeal, the adaptive wheelchair was rejected on the basis of an extremely questionable report riddled with contradictions and false statements. Instead of spending months or years in a lawsuit before the social court, I purchased the adaptive wheelchair myself in order to help my sister immediately. It's a shame, but it's true. Good luck to you!
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Christine Bray
February 15, 2022
AOK and medical aid provision—I could write a book about it! It's pathetic and inhumane. Keep fighting!
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Christine Bloecher
February 15, 2022
It goes without saying that I am signing this petition. Time and time again, for many years now, we have heard through various media outlets, including TV reports and, as in this case, through a petition, that the AOK is once again refusing to provide urgently needed assistive devices to those affected, i.e., to cover the costs. Why do we always read this about the AOK? Why don't we hear something like this from other health insurance companies? That is the one scandal that is evident here. The other scandal, however, is that a physically disabled person is continuously and permanently denied such an absolutely essential aid. What kind of reputation is the AOK earning itself once again? Mr. Matthias Klei, who started the petition, has my full sympathy for being subjected to such discriminatory bureaucracy in this wonderful country – literally, but in a negative sense. After an immensely long time, 18 years, it should really be a matter of course that the costs for a wheelchair that has fallen into disrepair are covered. This aid could have been damaged much earlier if Mr. Klei had not handled it so carefully and prudently. For this reason, the AOK should finance this urgently needed wheelchair without any “ifs” or “buts.” If all people who rely on a wheelchair only needed a new one every 18 years due to wear and tear, the costs for health insurance companies would be significantly lower. For this reason, I cannot understand why the AOK is once again causing itself absolute damage to its image and why, after this immensely long period of use, it is refusing to pay for the purchase of Mr. Klei's new wheelchair with questionable arguments. I am sharing this petition so that many other people will also become aware of the completely unnecessary scandal that the AOK has now caused and so that even more people can and will support Mr. Klei in his demand.
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Thomas Leinweber
February 15, 2022
Otherwise, they spend money like it's nothing. But when it comes down to it and real needs are at stake, suddenly it's game over. That's disgraceful.
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Robert Wunsch
February 15, 2022
I find what AOK and LWL are doing here absolutely outrageous! I hope Mr. Klei gets what he's entitled to.
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Ingrid Hagenbücher
February 15, 2022
I find the behavior of the AOK inhumane – is this what accessibility and a self-determined life look like?
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Ines Feuersenger
February 15, 2022
It is inhumane of the health insurance company to refuse this.
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Konstantin Meyer
February 15, 2022
It would be better to employ a few less armchair warmers and replace them with productive employees, then we would all benefit from a fairer distribution of our high contributions to this inefficient “health” system. It's unbelievable what's going on here...
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Isolde Feldmann
February 15, 2022
I am signing because one of my friends has been struggling with exactly the same problems for a long time. In her case, too, the reactions of the health insurance companies and the authorities involved often seem incomprehensible to me, even inhumane.
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Hartmut Stöckel
February 15, 2022
This behavior in the social welfare system is unfortunately typical! Please also think of all those who are deliberately excluded from access to statutory health insurance or social security contributions—with hair-raising excuses.
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Carolin Richtarsky
February 15, 2022
I know from my work how hard it is to fight with cost bearers, and I am outraged every time that office workers are allowed to decide on medical or therapeutic recommendations.
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Marco Struck
February 15, 2022
So much money is wasted on nonsense by health insurance companies, such as homeopathy or acupuncture, but when it comes to quality of life, they refuse to pay. Take glasses, teeth, and similar items as examples, or even assistive devices such as wheelchairs. It regularly annoys me that my contributions are squandered on the former, and I would rather see them invested in cases like these.
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Annette Horeschi
February 14, 2022
Participation in public life must not be denied.
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Herbert Weiß
February 14, 2022
Don't be so stingy—money is wasted on all sorts of things!
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Doris Stanek
February 14, 2022
In my opinion, the provision of aids as described in the report is vital. Unfortunately, the weakest members of our society face many obstacles, and their abilities are already limited due to their disabilities. This is not fair in a society based on solidarity. We should be there for each other and help when necessary.
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Karola Holy
February 14, 2022
I find this very sad.
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Suellen Waßenberg
February 14, 2022...
it simply cannot be right that a person is treated this way.
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Bernd Obstmeier
January 14, 2022
These are normal items for disabled people; money is not an issue for so-called other social welfare recipients!!!
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Ernst Hart
February 14, 2022
What is happening here is absurd, to say the least.
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Hans Heider
February 14, 2022
They squander money, allow overpriced medication, but deny help to those who need it.
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Werner Matzat
February 14, 2022
For information on the risks and side effects of your problem, please contact your local health minister or federal government, who will certainly be able to help you. After all, those who increase the defense budget must also have the financial resources to help their fellow citizens who are suffering. Or does anyone here see it differently?
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Andreas Porada
February 14, 2022
The AOK has never been my recommendation. Unfortunately, with its profit-oriented attitude, the AOK repeatedly proves itself to be one of those health insurance companies that circumvents the principle of solidarity for its own benefit and at the expense of the insured. I consider this to be conceivable in this case as well. For reasons of transparency, I am in favor of the AOK publicly addressing Matthias Klei's concerns and request and its antisocial decision-making.
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Peter Nitschke
February 14, 2022
I am signing because this is really the last straw and I hope that the AOK still has some dignity left.
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Christian Uhlenhut
February 13
I am in a similar situation.
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Birgit Dr. Rothenberg
January 27, 2022
This is a vital need that must be met.
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Martina Fickert
January 20, 2022
What must be done must be done... We must support patients, not hinder them; life does that enough already.
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Sonja Boutejdar
January 20
Don't let them get you down.
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Gerd Bork
January 20, 2022
This problem can only be solved with professional help. The social welfare association VdK provides legal advice and legal representation in appeal proceedings and, if necessary, in court. There are district associations throughout Germany; just take a look on the Internet.
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Astrid Hoffmann
January 20, 2022
I can't understand why no support is being provided in this situation. They should be glad they don't need it.
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Astrid Hoffmann
January 20, 2022
I can't understand why no support is being provided in this situation. They should be glad they don't need it.
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Thomas Pleitner
Jan. 20, 2022
I am paraplegic myself and know the constant struggle with the authorities and health insurance companies!
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Maike Sandmann
Jan. 20, 2022
Everyone has the right to participate in social life!
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Nathaly Finkemeyer
Jan. 20, 2022
Every person has the right to an unrestricted social life.
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Hans J. Pade
Jan. 20, 2022
It is unreasonable that an aid approved by the AOK is not repaired when it is defective. This is yet another example of arbitrariness toward contributors who need assistance.
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Peter Farys
Jan. 20, 2022
Because peanuts shouldn't be negotiated.
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Diana Schmidt
Jan. 20, 2022
I also have two wheelchairs and cannot understand why this battle still has to be fought at a time when participation is often publicly touted!
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Anja Bechtel
Jan. 20, 2022
What the AOK is doing is outrageous!!! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the petition helps. Great website, by the way.
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Jutta Maihack
Jan. 20, 2022
I think it's terrible that people have to fight for a wheelchair...it's pure arbitrariness on the part of the health insurance company... I hope it turns out well!!
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Anne Kunz
Jan. 20, 2022
I'm signing because, as the mother of a disabled child, I'm familiar with these tactics of attrition... and I studied law! But as we all know, being right and getting justice are two different things.
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Anja Fraedrich
Jan. 20, 2022
The actions of the AOK and the LWL are unrealistic and cynical! I agree 100% with the statements made by attorney Hartmann! Good luck, Mr. Klei!
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Reinhard Burchhardt
Jan. 20, 2022
I am signing because Matthias Klei needs a new or at least a new adaptive wheelchair now. Now!
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Heike Masurkewitz
Jan. 20, 2022
A person who has to sit in a wheelchair is already punished enough. It's a disgrace that someone like that has to fight for a wheelchair! Shame on you, AOK!!!
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Michael Kramml
Jan. 20, 2022
Everyone deserves a good social environment.
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Christian Hock
Jan. 20, 2022
Because I think it's a fair request that should be feasible within the scope of the AOK's actions.
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Gabriele Karbach-Fey
Jan. 19, 2022
People with disabilities are particularly dependent on a stable social environment.
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Jacqueline Mönkemöller
Jan. 19, 2022
Everyone is entitled to support. And Matthias is cool ;)
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Dagmar Schmidt
Jan. 19, 2022
Typical health insurance company: they're there when it's time to collect premiums, but when it's time to pay out, they're not responsible. If the doctor confirms the necessity, the health insurance company should have no right to question the need. If there is no law on this yet, one must be introduced.
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Gabriele Pendelin-Auer
Jan. 19, 2022
Participation in life is not possible without this aid.
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Margarita Heinrichs
Jan. 19, 2022
Incredibly sad
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Sonja Gieselmann
Jan. 19, 2022
Health insurance companies are currently looking to make big savings. Anyone who does not have the means to pay for treatment themselves quickly finds themselves in a difficult situation. This is sad, because the principle of statutory health insurance is actually solidarity.
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Ralf Giesler
Jan. 19, 2022
I care for someone who also needs a nursing wheelchair to cope with their physical limitations and live their daily life with dignity. Otherwise, they would inevitably be completely bedridden.
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Frank Pottmann
Jan. 19, 2022
Unbelievable...what this anti-social, dim-witted, idiotic association is getting away with. But the main thing is...the glass palace is regularly maintained... What a bunch of morons!
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Irmgard, Elisabeth Schuster
Jan. 19, 2022
Unacceptable, inhumane, absurd. Where is the solidarity of the health insurance company? Typical AOK.
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Sonja Sperling
Jan. 18, 2022
When you work with people with disabilities for years, you unfortunately encounter this behavior from health insurance companies and other authorities very often. Obvious applications are rejected, assistance for disabilities that clearly do not change must be reapplied for every year in a lengthy process, etc. It's about time this came to light; after all, we all pay enough.
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Sahra Baumgartl
Jan. 18
It's unacceptable to treat people this way! I'm completely stunned!
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Conny Apfel
Jan.
A new wheelchair is the least the AOK, which surely has more than a euro or two to spare, can offer here. The fact that you have to fight for this at all is beyond words.
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Lorenz Bieger
Jan. 18, 2022
The ignorance of the AOK has prompted me to switch health insurance companies. I am officially advertising SBK here. Nevertheless, I fully and emphatically support this petition.
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Caroline Wiebe
Jan. 18, 2022
... because many institutions repeatedly reject applications/funds in the hope that people will wear down and give up. This certainly works well for many people. But there are also people who are inspired to fight even harder, and that's a good thing.
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Svenja Klemcke
Jan. 18, 2022
I am signing because I find it appalling how disabled people are still treated in our society today. Everyone needs to realize that they themselves could become disabled through an accident, stroke, etc. I also find it unacceptable how the Participation Act is being implemented and restricted by health insurance companies.
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Jennifer Rössing
Jan. 15, 2022
For REAL equality!!!
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Eva Duda-Blaj
Jan. 13, 2022
I fully understand the situation because I myself am a wheelchair user and face these problems.
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B T
Jan. 6, 2022
Because it's important to me.
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Jens Hohnhold
Jan. 6, 2022
Because people who depend on wheelchairs should be able to get them!
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Andreas Büttke
Jan. 6, 2022
It's a given and, unfortunately, wouldn't work without public awareness.
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Susanne Scholle
Jan. 6, 2022
For two years, the money of the solidarity community has been thrown out the window with both hands for useless things, but when it comes to things that make sense, suddenly there are savings...
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Dirk Böhlke
Jan. 6, 2022 In most cases, health insurance companies take advantage of patients' weaknesses and hope that they don't have the strength, knowledge, or financial means to fight back.
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Maya Wißmann
Dec. 30, 2021
I'm on your side, Matthias. It's unbelievable.
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Klaudia Heil
Dec. 30, 2021
Because this man needs help! Because solidarity is important!
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Tanja Plöger
Dec. 30, 2021
This young man should be able to live his life as freely as possible, just like any other person without disabilities! I'm keeping my fingers crossed!
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Birgit Kanton
Dec. 30, 2021
Because that's exactly what health insurance companies are there for: to help “disabled people” improve their health through existing aids. This also includes participating in social life as independently as possible. So, dear AOK, please issue the approval immediately.
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Maria Heinz
Oct. 19, 2021
I can understand your situation very well and want to support your positive attitude towards life.
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Cindy Spengler
Oct. 18, 2021
...because I think people with limitations in their everyday lives should receive more support.
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Henry Knull
Oct. 17, 2021
It is unbearable to read how one of Germany's oldest health insurance companies has been using flimsy excuses for a year to refuse to provide a disabled AOK member with the help he obviously needs in the form of a new adaptive wheelchair. If the AOK needs to save money, it should permanently cut the salaries of its management team. Period.
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Nico Mosbrugger
Oct. 16, 2021
I am signing because I am a caregiver myself and have worked with physically and mentally disabled people for a long time. A new wheelchair is very important.
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Stefanie von Trechten
Oct. 16, 2021
I am signing this petition so that Matthias can get his wheelchair and participate in social life.
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Walter Eisert
Oct. 15, 2021
The health insurance company is acting inhumanely!
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Barbara Räk
Oct. 15, 2021
Hi Mr. Klei, congratulations on your fighting spirit, I love that! I think we can do it! All the best to you
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Simone Jeannerat
Oct. 15, 2021
Because I know the circumstances well, because I am in a wheelchair myself and have to fight hard for every aid.
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kühn manuela
Oct. 14, 2021
You shouldn't wish anything bad on anyone, but sometimes it wouldn't be a bad thing if these decision-makers were physically disabled themselves for a while. The health insurance company's statements are unacceptable.
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Nils Keck
Oct. 14, 2021
This kind of behavior is unacceptable. Everyone pays enough into the statutory health insurance system. It's not the fault of the insured that insurance companies and corporations misuse the money. This man needs a wheelchair. Immediately!
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Thomas Semmer
Oct. 14, 2021
Participation in social life is a basic need.
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Max Hidringer
Oct. 14, 2021
It's a disgrace that we even need a petition for something like this.
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Uta Saalmann
Oct. 14, 2021
Because it's important to me that people aren't disadvantaged by unnecessary bureaucracy.
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Ellen Jüchter
Oct. 14, 2021
He should be able to participate in life as much as possible, that's obvious.
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Henning Worm
Oct. 14, 2021
I'm signing because I'm tired of breaking my heels and Matthias' neck with a 20-year-old piece of junk. Even though this case would certainly be cheaper for the AOK.
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Angelika Zeise
Oct. 14
It's always the same procedure! People like Matthias Klei, who urgently need a new aid, don't get it. And on the other hand, I know from many home visits that a lot of money is wasted on aids that then just lie around in many people's homes and are never used. If the employees of AOK Nord-West spent a day in Matthias Klei's wheelchair, they might decide differently. It's a shame that health insurance companies, which are supposed to help people, are instead putting obstacles in their way and making their lives so difficult!!! I've been wondering for a long time... who is lining their pockets here? Cost coverage is being cut everywhere, such as cancer screening for women, which is only paid for every three years. The result...now more women will die of cancer. The list could certainly go on and on. But to deny a new wheelchair to people who are already in wheelchairs and have to deal with constant obstacles in their everyday lives is truly pathetic!!! And here you can also read about where millions of dollars are being wasted, and surely in many other places as well, because there are too many incompetent people making decisions all over the country.
https://www.sueddeutsche.de/politik/krankenkassen-kontrastmittel-radiologen-1.4599727
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Ursula Reinartz
Oct. 14, 2021
People with disabilities should be given the means to participate in public life and move around their homes freely, which is why I support this petition!
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Mechthild Janda
Oct. 14, 2021
Inclusion concerns us all!
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Anita Kanitz
Oct. 14, 2021
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” (Margaret Mead)
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Claudia Austmann
Oct. 14, 2021
Because, thank God, I'm not in a wheelchair, but you can't rule it out for the future.
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Susanne Riegel
Oct. 14, 2021
Every person should have the right to participate in life and to be able to move as freely as possible. People with disabilities in particular are dependent on the support of the community, and health insurance companies have no right to prevent them from participating in life in this way.
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Monika Kyselka
Oct. 13, 2021
... I find it unbelievable to deny someone something like this...
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Edith Payne
Oct. 13, 2021
I am disabled myself and have been fighting with TK for a year to get an orthosis that will allow me to leave my apartment on the third floor. It is simply no longer legally comprehensible why health insurance companies do not approve urgently needed aids.
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Cornelia Siewert
Oct.
It is truly inhumane what health insurance companies are doing. I am shocked! Those responsible should be dismissed and replaced by people who really have compassion and who use the money where it is really needed.
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Remo Salhab
Oct.
That's why I canceled my membership with AOK in Berlin after 20 years. It was a good decision, because the service is an absolute disaster. All the best to you, and of course I support your petition.
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Silvia Drews
Oct. 13, 2021
Social participation is a human right and we should do everything we can to make it possible.
Thank you, click here for the petition: www.change.org/AOKverweigertRollstuhl
Please remember to check your email inbox after signing to confirm your signature.
Otherwise, it will not be counted.
I have made a flyer available for download here. You are welcome to distribute it.
Why a wheelchair user needs a wheelchair | Diligent readers of the Neue Westfälische (nw.de)
