vfdb calls for amendments to German emergency care reform

The Association for the Promotion of German Fire Protection (vfdb) is calling for specific amendments to a proposed emergency care reform bill ahead of its discussion in the German Bundestag's health committee on September 9, 2026.

While the vfdb generally welcomes the reform, experts within the organization argue that several key areas require correction. Specifically, they contend that the proposed expert committee for medical emergency rescue must include representatives from service providers to ensure a balanced composition, similar to the structure used by the Federal Joint Committee (G-BA). Additionally, the vfdb argues that the committee's findings should not have binding authority in cost negotiations.

The organization also noted that patient transport services remain insufficiently addressed in the current draft. However, the vfdb explicitly supports the inclusion of § 30 SGB V, which would recognize medical emergency rescue as an independent benefit under statutory health insurance for the first time.