German hospital IT: Funding gaps and poor processes threaten digitalization initiatives (heise.de)

• Many KHZG projects lack follow-up funding
• Operational and maintenance costs uncovered
• Process optimization and staff training required

"Many digitalization projects launched under Germany's Hospital Future Act (KHZG) face a funding cliff. Initial grants did not cover long-term operational and maintenance costs. Inefficient processes and staff shortages further undermine the sustainability of investments. Without a legally mandated follow-up financing mechanism, already spent funds risk being wasted, widening the digitalization gap in healthcare."