Judith Gerlach, the Bavarian State Health Minister, has called for German hospitals to be ready for war in light of growing military threats from Russia and uncertainties surrounding NATO’s future, especially under a potential second term for U.S. President Donald Trump.
In a March 17 interview with Augusbergh Allgeimeine, she highlighted the urgent need to prepare Germany’s healthcare system for crises stemming from military conflicts.
Gerlach explained that the rising threat from Russia, combined with potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy, demands immediate action. She voiced concerns over the country’s healthcare readiness to maintain care while also treating soldiers should a conflict arise.
In response to warnings from Friedrich Merz about upcoming cuts due to rising national debt, Gerlach advocated for a national initiative to ensure hospitals are ready for any kind of conflict. She emphasized the need for a comprehensive civil operations plan to keep medical and nursing care intact during emergencies while also being able to treat combat casualties.
“The healthcare system is just as critical to national defense as the Bundeswehr,” Gerlach stated. She proposed adapting standards, infrastructure, and stockpiling medical supplies. Bold decisions would need to be made regarding what could be sacrificed during shortages, from reporting standards to personnel requirements, she explained.
Moreover, Gerlach underscored the necessity to streamline bureaucracy, particularly in times of critical medication shortages, and suggested that hospital IT systems be shielded from foreign cyberattacks. She also called for a revival of pharmaceutical production in Germany and Europe to secure the supply of essential medicines.
Additionally, Gerlach proposed civilian services to assist the healthcare system in a time of crisis, similar to military conscription, and pointed out that Belgium’s Ghent University is already training medical professionals to deal with war-related injuries.
As Europe faces increasing security challenges, Gerlach’s remarks highlight the growing need for healthcare systems to be prepared for all possible crises, both civilian and military.
