Protests erupted in Berlin as emergency service organizations voiced concerns over funding issues tied to the upcoming emergency medicine reform set for Bundestag approval.

On Tuesday morning, representatives from major emergency service organizations, including Johanniter, the German Red Cross, and six others, gathered in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin to protest aspects of the emergency medicine reform. Approximately 150 rescue workers participated, standing alongside helicopters and ambulances to emphasize the stakes. Their message was clear: while the reform is widely supported, its financial implications under the current budget constraints are problematic.

The reform, scheduled for a Bundestag vote on Thursday, aims to modernize emergency medical services by reducing unnecessary patient transports and introducing integrated emergency centers at hospitals to better triage cases. Additionally, it proposes increased telephone-based medical assistance to alleviate pressure on emergency services. These measures align with standards already implemented in other European countries. However, rescue organizations are concerned about the financial strain caused by a spring budget package that ties their funding to health insurance revenues, prompting calls for an exemption.

Kevin Grigorian of Johanniter, who organized the demonstration, stated, ‘We welcome the emergency reform, but we need corrections in financing.’ CDU and SPD lawmakers have reportedly indicated potential adjustments. Krystian Pracz of DRF Luftrettung highlighted the impact of rising international costs, such as fuel prices, on their operations. Meanwhile, Green Party health spokesperson Janosch Dahmen, who also works as an emergency doctor, expressed support for the rescue workers and raised concerns about maintaining quality standards amidst budget cuts. The reform aims to save €1.2 billion annually, but accommodating the rescue organizations’ demands could significantly reduce these savings.