Germany Plans Sweeping Healthcare Reforms to Boost Global Competitiveness
German Health Minister Nina Warken has outlined plans to strengthen the country’s healthcare system through innovation and global cooperation. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, she highlighted reforms in primary and emergency care while pushing for faster drug approvals and reduced bureaucracy in medical regulations.
The proposals aim to make Germany’s pharmaceutical and medtech sectors more competitive on the world stage.
At Davos, Warken met with WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to discuss two major challenges: combating antimicrobial resistance and improving the global standing of German healthcare firms. She stressed the need for stronger incentives within European pharmaceutical laws to speed up innovation and approval processes.
The minister also addressed long-term issues facing the sector, including an ageing population, labour shortages, and geopolitical instability. These concerns were raised during talks with international pharma and medtech companies, where she urged greater investment in German research and production.
As part of broader reforms, the government is reviewing the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) to cut red tape. Proposed changes include removing the five-year re-certification rule and setting clearer deadlines for approvals. A strategy paper incorporating these measures is expected by the end of 2026.
Separately, Germany has already begun restructuring primary and emergency care to create a more resilient system. The goal is to ensure faster, more efficient treatment while supporting long-term sustainability in healthcare delivery.
The government’s push for regulatory reform and increased investment aims to position Germany as a leader in medical innovation. If implemented, the proposed changes could streamline drug and device approvals while addressing critical workforce and demographic pressures. The final strategy paper will outline concrete steps by late 2026.
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