Hospitals in Gardelegen and Salzwedel to remain - Altmark hospitals face €18 million deficit despite state aid

Hospitals in Gardelegen and Salzwedel, both serving the Altmark region, are grappling with a severe financial crisis. Their annual deficit has surged to approximately €18 million, prompting the state government to provide temporary funding. Despite liquidity issues, both sites remain operational, treating nearly 16,000 inpatients last year and employing around 870 staff. They offer crucial services like surgery, obstetrics, internal medicine, and paediatrics. However, escalating operational costs and stagnant reimbursements have exacerbated the deficit, now standing at around €18 million.

The hospitals have received financial supplements, but these have proven insufficient to stabilize their finances. Now, the hospital group is seeking €25 million in one-time payments from insurers, significantly higher than the €8 million agreed for 2025. Meanwhile, the state government has committed to bridging the €7.5 million gap for 2024.

The district council is exploring options like deferring repayment of a €3 million liquidity loan to alleviate pressure on the hospitals. Further negotiations with insurers will determine if an additional supplement is granted. The hospitals will continue operating while awaiting extra payments from health insurers, ensuring medical services remain accessible for the region. The state's intervention guarantees that these services continue, with a final resolution hinging on ongoing talks between the clinics and insurance providers.