ABSTRACT
Recruitment of the next generation in surgery is more important than ever. Patients must be able to rely on the fact that the care provided by a hospital is safeguarded by sufficient medical personnel with the correct levels of qualification. Continuing education is an important pillar in this respect. This necessitates the engagement of the medical leadership and personnel to invest in the new medical generation. The readiness for continuing education must be financially borne by the provider. Continuing education in general and visceral surgery in a hospital responsible for basic and routine care is also essential in the future in order to guarantee a broad spectrum of care in Germany. The new continuing education regulations and the planned hospital reformation will make this more difficult; therefore, clever concepts are necessary.