Expanded Authorities and Enhanced Education: Federal Administration Aims to Fortify Skills in Healthcare Sector - Expanded authority and additional training: The Federal Government aims to enhance the nursing profession
Expanding Powers for Germany's Nursing Profession
The German Federal Government is set to propose a significant reform in the nursing sector, aiming to expand the roles and responsibilities of nursing professionals. The proposed changes, collectively known as the "Law on Expanding Powers and Digitizing Nursing Care," are an updated version of the Care Competence Act.
According to Carola Reimann, CEO of the AOK Federal Association, this long-awaited development in nursing legislation marks a major step forward after years of discussions on upgrading and expanding the competencies of nursing professionals. The reforms are expected to be implemented through pilot projects and delegation of care staff.
One of the key aspects of the proposed changes is the expansion of qualified nursing staff's services, previously reserved for doctors. The specifics of these expanded powers will be determined in collaboration with nursing associations.
To better utilize the competencies of nursing staff and retain them within the profession, the government is also planning to create a nationwide standardized training program for nursing assistants. This new training program, scheduled to start on January 1, 2027, will take 18 months to complete full-time, with part-time and shortened versions available for those with appropriate prior experience.
Minister Warken has emphasized that these changes will open up "new career paths" for nursing professionals. However, the precise details of these expanded career opportunities remain to be seen.
The reforms have received mixed reactions from various stakeholders. The German Nurses Association views the laws as a "crucial contribution to the attractiveness of the nursing professions" and ensuring nursing care. On the other hand, the German Association of Senior Citizens and Disabled Persons (VDAB) has criticized the laws, stating that they fall short of the expectations of many nursing professionals and that real relief and self-responsibility remain out.
Oliver Blatt, CEO of the GKV association, agrees that strengthening the nursing professions is "correct and long overdue," but also expresses a desire for "clearer legal framework conditions." Simone Fischer, a Green healthcare politician, has criticized the government for "massively gutting" the original bill on care competency.
As the Bundestag now deals with both nursing laws, it remains to be seen how these proposed changes will shape the future of nursing in Germany. The draft from the Health Ministry also includes measures to reduce bureaucracy in nursing care, which is expected to further streamline operations and improve efficiency within the sector.
The reforms, dubbed the "Law on Expanding Powers and Digitizing Nursing Care," propose that nursing professionals receive expanded powers, which may potentially involve services previously only permitted for doctors. Additionally, a nationwide standardized training program for nursing assistants is planned, aiming to incorporate elements of science and health-and-wellness vocational training, starting January 1, 2027.
