Gerald Gaß, Chairman of the German Hospital Association (DKG), has issued a warning regarding the consequences of the ongoing heatwave, demanding additional funding specifically for hospital cooling systems. Gaß told the “Rheinische Post” (Thursday edition) that in the coming hot days, many patients and hospital staff will tangibly feel the effects of the chronic underfunding plaguing hospitals.
Gaß elaborated that the DKG has proposed a multi-year climate investment program totaling €31 billion, which would encompass the implementation of cooling technology. He criticized the federal states, stating that for decades they have failed to meet their obligation to fully fund investment costs. He lamented that without funding for air conditioning or other cooling methods, hospitals are forced to continue improvising with shade, fans, and cooling packs.
Furthermore, Gaß voiced strong criticism toward the austerity package floated by Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU). He warned that if the proposed cuts from the Federal Ministry of Health are implemented, maintaining properly cooled hospitals would become “illusory.” The German Weather Service forecasts temperatures reaching up to 36 degrees Celsius on Thursday.
