The Association of German Elderly and Disabled Care (VDAB) argues that the revised draft of the Nursing Ordinance Law (PNOG) places significant pressure on outpatient care services. VDAB Managing Director Thomas Knieling stated to newspapers from the Funke Media Group that, upon initial review, it is clear that severe service cuts in the outpatient care sector are slated to remain, fundamentally undermining the principle of prioritizing outpatient care over institutional care.
Knieling added that these cuts could lead to profound economic consequences for the affected services. He warned that outpatient and community care services will face massive financial difficulties, emphasizing the urgent need for improvements to the bill. Conversely, the association suggests that a viable solution might emerge regarding the financing of union-agreed wages, although organizations outside the collective bargaining system will likely face greater challenges.
Overall, Knieling does not view the draft as a sound response to the long-term challenges facing care provision. In its current form, he insists the PNOG fails to address existential future care issues. He characterizes the law essentially as a “saving law,” expressing doubt as to whether the announced structural commission will tackle future-proof care and performance structures, or merely focus on system and financing questions.
