Efforts to Preserve Wittstock as a Healthcare Hub Amid Hospital Reform

The future of the Wittstock hospital, located in the Ostprignitz-Ruppin district, is under significant scrutiny following announcements of its impending closure. The regional Landtag has taken a united stance against this decision, with all four parliamentary factions advocating for the maintenance of Wittstock as a vital healthcare location.

The coalition formed by SPD and BSW, alongside the CDU opposition, is pushing for the establishment of a polyclinic in the area. A resolution is set to be discussed in the Landtag on Wednesday that requests state support for the creation of this clinic by early 2027. The proposed facility is expected to provide essential services including basic healthcare, cardiology, and emergency care.

The CDU has emphasized the need for the state government to ensure the long-term viability of the Wittstock hospital site. They have called for an examination of the potential establishment of a medical care center and the assurance of emergency services in Wittstock. The AfD faction has also expressed a desire to see Wittstock remain a hospital site, arguing against the closure of economically viable hospitals as a result of the current hospital reform.

According to KMG Kliniken, the operators of the Wittstock hospital, the site is scheduled to close on January 1, 2027, citing federal hospital reform regulations as the primary reason. They plan to relocate cardiology and gastroenterology services to the Pritzwalk clinic.

In a coalition agreement, SPD and BSW have committed to preserving all existing hospital locations. Health Minister Britta Müller has stated that changes to healthcare provision should not happen without viable alternatives in place. The operating company has indicated a willingness to consider other uses for the facility in the future.