This is how the clinic reform looks in Thuringia - Thuringia backs hospital reform—no closures but major service shifts ahead

Thuringia has approved the federal government's revised general hospital reform plan. The changes aim to give regions more flexibility while ensuring no general hospitals close completely. However, some facilities may see major adjustments to their services.

Under the reform, states retain control over general hospital planning and can grant exemptions where needed. Thuringia will decide by August which services each general hospital will provide, with formal notices issued in December. The state received 887 applications for specialised service groups, with the highest demand in basic and emergency care.

The updated rules extend transition periods and broaden exemptions. A €624.1 million federal fund, originally meant for general hospital mergers, can now support existing general facilities. This shift has drawn criticism from the Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), which argues it reduces financial pressure for meaningful reform. The insurer also claims at least 15% of Thuringia's general hospital beds are surplus to requirements.

Health insurers continue to push for consistent reform to create modern, sustainable care. While no general hospitals will shut down, individual sites may face significant changes to their roles and specialties.

The reform gives Thuringia more time and funding options to reshape its general hospital network. Decisions on service adjustments will be finalised in the coming months, with notices sent by the end of the year. The changes aim to balance regional needs with long-term healthcare sustainability.