Erzgebirgsklinikum applies for protective shielding proceedings

The Erzgebirgsklinikum with around 2,500 employees is in financial difficulties and has applied for a so-called protective shield procedure. Patient care at the four locations in Annaberg-Buchholz, Stollberg, Zschopau and Olbernhau will continue without restrictions, according to the hospital management. The aim of the process is to implement the restructuring plan presented in September. According to the information provided, this will require around 55 million euros.

In order to monitor the proceedings in self-administration, the Chemnitz district court has appointed a trustee to assist the management. The aim is to stabilize the clinic economically and preserve the majority of jobs, explained Managing Director Marcel Koch.

Financial difficulties also affect other clinics

Other clinics are also in financial difficulties. Last year, the district of Leipzig averted the insolvency of Muldentalkliniken with financial aid of ten million euros. Now the hospitals in Wurzen and Grimma are being sold to the Sana clinics. This year, the city of Leipzig had to provide additional financial support for its St. Georg hospital and increase its credit line. In spring 2023, the Paracelsus Clinic in Reichenbach (Vogtlandkreis) was closed following insolvency.

Koch cited increased costs as the reason for the imbalance. In addition, the number of inpatients had fallen in recent years. For the Erzgebirgsklinikum, the gap between costs and revenue is widening.

Restructuring plan: 155 fewer beds

The aim of the restructuring plan is to reduce costs and increase revenue. According to the information provided, it includes more than 50 measures. For example, the inpatient services in Annaberg and Zschopau are to be bundled and the facilities in Stollberg and Olbernhau are to focus primarily on outpatient care. A total of 155 inpatient beds are to be reduced and the workforce downsized. There is talk of a reduction in staff in the single-digit percentage range.

The concept is now being reviewed and adapted once again, it was said. In four to five months, it will be submitted to the creditors and the local court for approval and confirmation.

The hospital, with its four locations, currently has 955 inpatient beds and ensures the annual care of around 34,000 inpatients and 205,000 outpatients.