Saxony-Anhalt: Clinic Operator Ameos Demands Millions from District Administrator
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The hospital operator Ameos is demanding approximately 4.17 million Euros from the district administrator of Salzlandkreis, Markus Bauer.
- Ameos claims Bauer intentionally and immorally harmed the company, while Bauer has filed an objection.
- The Salzlandkreis is expected to cover Bauer's legal costs, with the district council set to discuss the matter, while the district itself is pursuing a claim of over six million Euros against Ameos.
Hospital operator Ameos has lodged a significant financial claim against Markus Bauer, the district administrator of Salzlandkreis, demanding approximately 4.17 million Euros from him personally. Ameos justifies this demand by alleging "intentional immoral damage" caused by Bauer, a claim that the district administrator has formally contested. The situation has escalated, with Ameos having previously accused Bauer of breaching a purchase agreement and disclosing information publicly.
The Salzlandkreis is preparing to cover Bauer's legal expenses related to this demand, as indicated in a resolution proposal. The district council is scheduled to deliberate on the matter on July 1st. While Ameos has obtained a payment order from the Aschersleben local court, this does not confirm the validity of their claims. Following Bauer's objection, Ameos has the option to file a lawsuit.
Bauer expressed his dismay that the dispute has become personal, stating, "It is very clear: neither I nor the region as a whole will be intimidated by this. Because the common goal of the district administration and the district council was and is: to commit ourselves to reliable healthcare in the interest of the population." He emphasized that neither he nor the region would be intimidated.
Meanwhile, the Salzlandkreis is pursuing its own legal action against Ameos, having initiated enforcement proceedings to recover approximately 3.8 million Euros plus interest, now exceeding six million Euros, from the sale of clinics years ago. This claim has been judicially confirmed. District Administrator Bauer has not ruled out the possibility of the clinics returning to public ownership if Ameos fails to meet the requirements of hospital planning, stating the district would resume responsibility for inpatient healthcare.
It is very clear: neither I nor the region as a whole will be intimidated by this. Because the common goal of the district administration and the district council was and is: to commit ourselves to reliable healthcare in the interest of the population.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.