Hospitals warn of consequences of healthcare reform

Hospitals in Saxony are facing existential burdens as a result of the planned federal healthcare reform, according to a media report. "Due to the rapid implementation, we have almost no options for action," said Martin Jonas, commercial director at Chemnitz Hospital, to the "Sächsische Zeitung" and the "Leipziger Volkszeitung".

The clinics have already been cut to the bone over the years. "This is depriving us of our livelihood." According to initial calculations, the new law would deprive Chemnitz Hospital of an additional 12 million euros. This means a total loss of 20 million euros for 2027.

Planned reform with spending brakes for clinics too

At the end of April, the Federal Cabinet launched the healthcare reform, which is intended to reduce the burden on statutory health insurance funds by 16.3 billion euros in 2027. Among other things, the law plans to curb spending at surgeries, clinics and in the pharmaceutical industry.

Elblandkliniken board of directors calls plan a disaster

The Elblandkliniken in Riesa, Radebeul, Meißen and Großenhain are also warning of financial cuts. "This proposed legislation is a disaster," said CEO Rainer Zugehör. In 2027, the Elblandkliniken could still somehow survive the burden of the law. "But from 2028 onwards, I have no idea at the moment. You can't save such sums by closing a department, for example."

According to the report, the management of Leipzig's St. Georg Hospital is also very concerned about the plans of Federal Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU): "The new legal requirements are like a full stop."