Planned clinic closures in Lower Austria: SPÖ raises the alarm

Planned clinic closures in Lower Austria: SPÖ raises the alarm

In Lower Austria there is currently a lively discussion about possible closures of some clinics. This is part of the process that was initiated by the State Health Agency (LGA) to optimally use resources in healthcare. A recently published concept provides to close the clinics in Hollabrunn, Korneuburg and Stockerau and to summarize at a new location in the South-West Weinviertel. In addition, the Gänserndorf location is converted as a primary supply center. Other clinics, such as Melk, Klosterneuburg, Gmünd and Waidhofen on the Thaya, are to be converted into special health institutions, whereby the acute care at these locations fails.

The LGA makes it clear that this is a draft work and there is no final proposal. "There are many ideas and suggestions that are discussed, evaluated, changed, recorded or rejected again," said a spokesman for the LGA. This shows that the decision was not made immediately and that the participants are still in exchange. The entire process for the development of recommendations for action, including experts, should be completed by the first quarter of 2025.

call to more transparency

The State Councilor Ludwig Schleritzko from the ÖVP referred to the cross -country -wide process in a statement. He emphasizes that the results are expected to be presented in the coming year of the state government. "Playing individual suggestions and papers to the public to make headlines and political change with guesswork does not correspond to professionalism," he said. This statement is a clear indication that the LGA wants to promote a transparent and well thought -out discussion about the future health care of the region.

The criticism of the SPÖ has now become loud. National Councilor Rudolf Silvan described the measures provided for in the concept as "planned clear cut" in healthcare and as a "attack on Lower Austria's patients". These Social Democrats announced a press conference on Thursday to clarify their position and protest against the announced closings. The title of this event is "No to hospital closings in Lower Austria", which underlines the determination of the SPÖ to put this topic at the center of the public debate.

The LGA explains that its main intention is to guarantee improved care with the current staff. It emphasizes that the employees of the health sector in Lower Austria will be the first to be informed about possible changes, but there are still no specific results available.

Overall, the situation gives the impression that these changes have to be carefully weighed and that those who work in the healthcare system are closely integrated into the process. The topic remains extremely sensitive because it is about the health care of thousands of people in the region. The LGA and political representatives emphasize the need for a transparent process to ensure the best possible care for all citizens of Lower Austria. Further and detailed information on the developments can be found in an article on K.at .