German Cancer Aid, the German Cancer Society and the German Cancer Research Center have warned of considerable risks for oncological care in Germany following the adoption of the Act on the Adaptation of the Hospital Reform (KHAG) in the Bundesrat. Extended exemptions and extended transitional periods would hinder the desired concentration of complex cancer treatments in specialized structures.

The three organizations advise cancer patients to specifically opt for treatment in certified cancer centers and Comprehensive Cancer Centers (CCC). There, the therapy is carried out according to clear quality specifications, which improves the chances of recovery.

The associations point out that studies show how treatment in certified centers not only increases the chances of survival, but also relieves the financial burden on the health system. An extension of exceptions to quality specifications would continue to allow complex cancer therapies in non-specialized clinics and thus counteract the goals of the reform.

Research results have shown that factors such as high case numbers, interdisciplinary teams and structured quality assurance significantly improve the prognosis of cancer patients. A reform that allows too many exceptions would dilute these evidence-based standards and cement existing differences in quality.

Currently, about half of all cancer patients in Germany are not treated in certified centers. The organizations emphasize that a consistent concentration of complex therapies in specialized facilities is necessary in order to strengthen cutting-edge medicine nationwide instead of relativizing it.

The associations appeal to those affected not to choose the treatment location solely on the basis of physical proximity, but to consciously prefer quality-certified centers.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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