Diabetes Center Rheinland Haan Receives Top National Honor—One of Just 13 Clinics Nationwide

Germany's Top Diabetes Center Earns Rare Five-Star Rating for Excellence

Haan—Diabetes has become a widespread epidemic in Germany, with over six million people living with the condition. Yet the disease remains insidious. "Poorly managed blood sugar can lead to severe complications such as nerve or vascular damage, which in turn may cause heart attacks, strokes, or kidney failure," warns Dr. Ingo Röhrig, chief physician at the Diabetes Center Rheinland Haan. Part of St. Josef Hospital, the center stands out among Germany's top-rated diabetes clinics—not only for its excellence but also for its unique focus on treating inpatients across all hospital departments.

The German Association of Diabetes Clinics has once again awarded the center its highest distinction—five stars, akin to hotel ratings—placing it among just 13 clinics nationwide to receive this honor.

For Dr. Röhrig and his multidisciplinary team—comprising physicians, nurses, counselors, podiatrists, and social workers—the priority extends beyond their own patients. "Whether someone is undergoing knee surgery, suffering from appendicitis, or dealing with arterial circulatory disorders, diabetes must always be factored into their treatment," he emphasizes, underscoring the need for integrated care.

The pandemic has left its mark on diabetes management as well. "Many people, not just those with diabetes, gained weight—an average of nearly six kilograms," notes Dr. Röhrig. Combined with delayed check-ups, this has led to significant challenges in blood sugar control, requiring intensive follow-up care.

Type 2 diabetes, in particular, is surging in Germany, often progressing silently before symptoms appear. That is why Dr. Röhrig advocates for routine screening. Every patient admitted to Haan's hospital receives a blood sugar test, frequently uncovering undiagnosed cases. "We can begin optimizing glucose levels during their stay, helping prevent complications like chronic wounds or kidney damage," he explains. While diabetes remains incurable in the traditional sense, proper management—both of blood sugar and the patient's overall approach to the disease—can enable those affected to live full, unrestricted lives.