Hamburg's uninsured migrants left without lifesaving medical aid

Uninsured migrants in Hamburg have been without financial support for urgent medical treatments since mid-May. The city’s emergency fund, which previously covered essential care, has run out of money. Doctors and activists warn that without immediate action, many people will face worsening health conditions or even death from untreated illnesses. The Clearing Office at Hamburg’s Refugee Center helps uninsured individuals access healthcare or pays for urgent treatments through a municipal emergency fund. Most of its clients are refugees and homeless people. In 2024, the fund approved support for 678 out of 781 applicants, spending around €718,000 on treatments and prescriptions.

Despite a coalition agreement promising ‘needs-based’ funding, the program has been chronically underfunded. In May, the Senate approved only about one-fifth of the requested €500,000. The remaining money was insufficient for new cases, leaving the fund empty for the rest of the year.

The Senate classifies the Clearing Office as a ‘voluntary service’ and states that future funding depends on budget decisions. Current fiscal constraints are influencing these choices. Medinetz, a network providing healthcare to uninsured individuals, has criticised the city’s austerity measures as harmful to the sick and vulnerable.

Dr Matthias Plieninger, an internist and Medinetz member, warns that without this support, untreated infections and other serious conditions could become life-threatening. The organisation is now urging the city to release the promised funds immediately and establish long-term, sustainable financing. The emergency fund remains empty for new cases. Without additional money, uninsured migrants will continue to be denied coverage for critical treatments. The Senate’s next budget decision will determine whether the program can resume its support.