Obstetrics Under Pressure: Political Parties Call for a Comprehensive Plan

Obstetric care in Saxony is coming under increasing pressure. Following the planned closure of the maternity ward in Kamenz at the end of the year, the delivery room in Zschopau is now also facing closure. Against this backdrop, four political groups in the state parliament—the CDU, SPD, Greens, and Left Party—have submitted a joint motion calling for a comprehensive strategy for obstetric care in the Free State of Saxony. This motion builds on earlier motions submitted by the Greens and the Left Party.

“Kamenz, Zschopau, and the closure of many other delivery rooms in rural areas show that we can no longer stand by and watch as obstetric care continues to be scaled back under cost pressures. When maternity wards close, travel distances for pregnant women increase—and local access to care is put at risk,” emphasized Green Party caucus leader Franziska Schubert. She stressed the need for forward-looking planning to prevent gaps in care.

“Anyone who wants young families to stay in rural areas or settle there must also ensure good health care. Local obstetric care and support from midwives from pregnancy through the postpartum period are indispensable,” said Schubert. Midwives’ working conditions must be improved, their expertise strengthened, and new care options made available. 

Experts to Present Comprehensive Strategy by the End of 2027

According to the motion, a working group is to be established this year that will present initial findings by the end of March 2027 and develop a strategy for obstetric care in Saxony by the end of 2027. The proposers point out that the number of hospitals with a maternity ward has fallen from 54 to 34 since 1991. The motion is on the agenda for the next plenary session on November 4.

“Saxony must not lose any more delivery rooms without creating alternatives,” emphasized Susanne Schaper, chair of the Left Party parliamentary group. This results in long travel distances in many areas. “Even though the birth rate is declining, all families across the state deserve the assurance that they can reach a qualified facility in time. Every child has the right to a safe birth close to home.”

Expertise of All Staff Involved in Childbirth Needed

Schaper considers it essential to leverage the expertise of all staff and expand collaboration—including that of midwives, labor and delivery nurses, and doctors. “Working conditions, recruitment, and retention of skilled personnel must improve, especially for midwives who want to return to the profession or pursue further training.” Emergency medical services should also be involved. 

“We must set the course today so that pregnant women, expectant parents, and families can continue to rely on dependable care in the future. To achieve this, we need long-term solutions rather than short-term, isolated measures,” said Laura Stellbrink, spokesperson for social policy for the SPD parliamentary group. Obstetrics is part of public services and an important factor in attracting families to Saxony.

Stabilizing structures, identifying gaps in care early on

“The goal is to stabilize existing structures, identify gaps in care early on, and further develop obstetric care so that it continues to meet the needs of families in both urban and rural areas,” explained Stellbrink. The future of obstetric care can only be secured through joint efforts. “We must involve the people who take on responsibility for pregnant women, mothers, and newborns every day.”