It was a coalition promise that is now reflected in the Ministry of Health's budget: Six million euros have been earmarked there for both the current and the coming financial year for "grants for investments to ensure medical care, particularly in rural areas". How exactly they are to be used is not explained. "Details still need to be agreed on specific implementation," the SPD-led Ministry of Health told the German Press Agency.
In Upper Lusatia, where the municipalities of Rietschen and Krauschwitz are planning to open Saxony's first municipally-run medical care center (MVZ) in September, the money is causing little enthusiasm. "I'm just disappointed in Saxony and in Ms Köpping," says Krauschwitz mayor Tristan Mühl (Free Voters), criticizing the Saxon health minister. The municipality had contacted the ministry after these plans became known. However, according to Mühl, there were only friendly refusals regarding both the start-up financing for the jointly founded limited company that is to operate the medical center and the necessary guarantee from the Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians.
