German municipalities demand better heat protection for hospitals

Germany's Association of Cities and Municipalities (DStGB) is demanding improved heat protection measures for hospitals and nursing homes, citing the inadequacy of current facilities. DStGB President Ralph Spiegler emphasized the necessity of air conditioning for both patients and healthcare staff, estimating a minimum investment of 20 billion euros to address the issue.

“

Hospitals need air conditioning for the patients, but also for the clinic staff.

Spiegler stated that recent intense heatwaves have "clearly shown" that healthcare facilities, including nursing and retirement homes, must be better prepared for such extreme weather events. He specifically highlighted the need to consider the unique circumstances in elderly care facilities, ensuring their spaces are equipped to handle climatic changes and provide a comfortable environment for residents.

“

We see immense investment needs here, estimated at least 20 billion euros.

The call for action comes as Germany, along with Western Europe, experienced unprecedented heat in June and July. The EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service reported the average temperature for these two months in the region was 21.62 degrees Celsius, a staggering 2.79 degrees above the 1991-2020 average. June alone was the hottest on record.

“

clearly shown that hospitals as well as nursing and retirement homes must be better prepared for such events

These extreme temperatures have had severe consequences. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) estimates that thousands of people died due to heat exposure, with approximately 9,600 heat-related fatalities recorded between June 22 and June 28 alone, when temperatures in many parts of Germany approached 40 degrees Celsius. Hospital officials have previously warned about the impact of heatwaves on patients and staff, echoing the call for additional funding for cooling systems.

“

For air conditioning or other cooling technology, there is nothing left; the clinics must continue to improvise with shading, fans, and cooling packs.