More than 41 million euros in compensation payments to hospitals
In order to better cope with the effects of the energy crisis, 78 hospitals in Rhineland-Palatinate will receive an individual compensation payment totaling more than 41 million euros. The second energy aid compensation payment will create a further basis for the economic stabilization of hospitals that have got into financial difficulties due to additional energy costs, explained Health Minister Clemens Hoch (SPD) in Mainz on Friday. From February to April of this year, compensation payments amounting to around 75 million euros had already been made.
The sharp rise in energy prices since fall 2021 has caused a significant increase in energy costs for hospitals, the minister reported. Hospitals are particularly affected by this increase compared to other sectors because they already have particularly high energy consumption.
At the end of last year, the federal government therefore provided hospitals with extensive financial support to cushion the rise in energy costs caused by Russia's attack on Ukraine and the associated cost increases. In addition to the price brakes, up to six billion euros were earmarked as a supplementary aid program to offset energy-related additional costs.
The compensation payments of over 41 million euros will significantly help these hospitals in managing their financial struggles caused by increased energy costs. Ensuring the health sector's stability, particularly hospitals, is crucial during the ongoing energy crisis.
Source: www.dpa.com
