Call for Emergency Relief Fund for Victims of Medical Errors

Medical errors can affect anyone, with thousands of victims reported annually in Germany. Experts are now advocating for emergency assistance for those affected, particularly in cases that lead to prolonged legal disputes.

Misdiagnosed illnesses, incorrect medications, and surgical mistakes are among the challenges faced by countless patients in Germany each year. According to Eugen Brysch, the head of the German Foundation for Patient Protection, many victims endure lengthy legal battles even after expert opinions confirm errors as the cause of further health complications.

The new coalition government, consisting of both the black and red parties, is urged to expedite compensation for victims of medical malpractice. Proposed measures include establishing a fund into which health insurers, hospitals, and physicians would contribute. Brysch noted that previous governments had intended to mandate insurance providers and service providers to contribute at least 60 million euros to such a fund.

Victims of medical errors could then receive compensation from this emergency fund. Brysch emphasized that although the current coalition agreement does not address this issue, it is imperative for the government to prioritize it on their political agenda.

Severe consequences resulting from medical errors, such as permanent disabilities, blindness, or paralysis, have been reported. The Medical Services' latest annual statistics reveal that in 2023, out of 12,438 cases examined, 2,679 were determined to result from medical malpractice, with a third of those cases leading to lasting damage. Tragically, 75 patients lost their lives due to mistakes made by healthcare professionals.

The actual number of medical errors is believed to be significantly higher than reported. Many cases are resolved through negotiations between patients and healthcare providers, or through malpractice insurance, leading to a considerable number of unreported incidents. Studies indicate that the true frequency of errors far exceeds the number of allegations made.

Despite the availability of channels to investigate suspected medical errors, patients often face lengthy legal struggles following determinations made by expert committees. Brysch pointed out that for over two decades, there have been calls for a fund that could provide immediate relief to those affected.

Furthermore, Brysch insisted that patient rights should not only be supported through legal frameworks but also emphasized the need for a robust culture of error management within hospitals and among private practitioners. He advocated for the mandatory systematic recording of critical incidents in healthcare settings.