Germany's Hospital Reform Faces Delays Amid Federal-State Disputes

Germany's hospital reform, originally introduced by former Health Minister Karl Lauterbach and now overseen by CDU Health Minister Nina Warken, is encountering significant delays as unresolved disagreements between the federal and state governments stall progress. A key Bundestag health committee meeting scheduled to discuss the reform was abruptly canceled after the agenda item was removed due to ongoing disputes. Despite these setbacks, the Federal Ministry of Health is actively working to ease tensions and aims to find a solution that can secure majority approval in the Bundesrat by the end of March.

The ministry has emphasized that the legislative process is primarily the responsibility of the governing parliamentary factions, implicitly distancing itself from direct blame for the delays. The reform plan is crucial for modernizing Germany's hospital infrastructure and improving healthcare delivery. However, the unresolved issues between federal and state authorities have put significant time pressure on Health Minister Warken and her team.

Amidst the political challenges, the health ministry continues engagement efforts to calm the situation and advance discussions. The ministry's spokesperson highlighted the intention to maintain dialogue and find common ground to enable the reform legislation's passage. The ongoing dispute underscores the complexities of Germany's federal system where health policy coordination requires consensus between multiple levels of government.

As of February 25, 2026, the hospital reform faces uncertainty but remains a priority for the current government, with a resolution targeted before the close of March. The outcome of these negotiations will directly impact the future structure and funding of hospitals across Germany, signaling a critical phase in national health policy reform.