Physicians warn of risks in Lower Austria emergency service cuts

A group of physicians known as Aktion Herzalarm Waidhofen an der Ybbs has released a 16-page risk analysis warning against planned reductions in emergency physician stations in Lower Austria. Under the NÖ-Gesundheitsplan 2040+, eleven of the state's 32 emergency physician support points are scheduled to be closed by April 1, 2027, with an emphasis on expanding the network of paramedic-led stations instead.

The medical group, including spokespeople Alfred Lichtenschopf, Klaus Katzensteiner, and Martin Gattermeier, argues that replacing doctors with paramedics poses significant risks. They note that paramedics lack the legal authority to perform certain critical tasks, such as intubation or administering strong painkillers and opiates, which are vital during heart attacks, strokes, or pediatric emergencies.

The analysis also highlights limitations of the tele-emergency physician system, noting it cannot replace physical examinations and may be subject to technical failures. Furthermore, the group warns of increased response times, estimating delays of up to 30 minutes in certain areas due to the relocation of stations. They are calling for an open discussion and the preservation of the Waidhofen an der Ybbs location to prevent a deterioration in emergency care quality.