Bavaria's Health Minister Calls for War-Readiness in Hospitals and Clinics

Bavaria’s Health Minister, Judith Gerlach (CSU), has urged for Germany’s healthcare system to be prepared for a potential war scenario, emphasizing its importance to national defense alongside the military.

Speaking to Augsburger Allgemeine, Gerlach highlighted increasing security concerns in Europe due to Russia’s military threats and the potential shift in US defense commitments.

She called for a nationwide civilian operations plan to ensure hospitals can accommodate a surge in patients during crises. This would require clear directives from the EU, federal, and state levels.

Additionally, Gerlach stressed the need to secure healthcare IT infrastructure against cyber threats and boost domestic pharmaceutical production to reduce dependency on foreign supplies.

In Bavaria, hospitals have been asked to assess their emergency readiness, while aid organizations are training support staff for critical situations. Gerlach also suggested discussing not just the return of conscription but also a civilian service program to reinforce strained healthcare facilities.

Her remarks come as German political leaders negotiate a €500 billion infrastructure and defense package, including constitutional changes to bypass the country’s debt restrictions for military spending.

Earlier, German FM Annalena Baerbock called on US President Donald Trump to refrain from making any concessions to Russian leader Vladimir Putin that could undermine Ukraine’s territorial integrity.