Germany emergency care reform threatens air rescue funding

The German federal government is currently working on a reform of emergency care services. While organizations like the ADAC support central elements of the draft—such as improved patient steering and better networking of actors—there are significant concerns regarding the financial stability of air rescue services.

The ADAC has warned that the proposed method of linking remuneration development to the basic wage sum may not accurately reflect the actual cost increases in air rescue. These costs are driven by energy prices, technical and aviation law requirements, and investments in medical technology and aircraft. Furthermore, the ADAC suggests that the concentration of medical services in specialized locations and longer transport distances, particularly in rural areas, will increase the demand for high-quality air rescue services.