German Midwives Secure Improved Contracts, Averting Potential Care Shortages

Germany has reached an agreement to improve contracts for midwives, addressing concerns over potential understaffing and reduced quality of care for women giving birth. The deal, brokered between professional associations and statutory health insurance representatives, includes increased compensation for hospital births and streamlined billing processes for telephone consultations.

Key Improvements to Midwifery Contracts

• Hospital Birth Surcharges: Midwives providing one-on-one care during births in hospitals will now receive additional payments, even for women who present shortly before labor.
• Simplified Billing: The requirement for midwives to obtain a signature for billing telephone consultations with women at home has been eliminated.

Government and Association Response

Federal Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) hailed the agreement as “good news,” while CSU Bundestag member Emmi Zeulner called it “a great result.” Minister Warken expressed gratitude to all midwives “for their perform on the side of women, children and families.”

Previous Concerns and Legal Action

The new agreement addresses concerns raised by the German Midwives Association regarding a previous midwifery assistance contract established by an arbitration board last year. The association had warned of potential “obstetric undercare” due to insufficient regulations, particularly concerning payment for hospital births. The German Midwives Association intends to withdraw a lawsuit filed against the arbitration award.

Birth Rates and Hospital Capacity in Germany

Germany is forecasting between 680,000 and 720,000 births annually by 2030. In 2024, the Federal Statistical Office recorded 677,117 newborns. While this is an increase from the low of 663,000 births in 2011, the number of hospitals with maternity wards has significantly decreased since reunification, with only 578 such clinics remaining in 2024.

Looking Ahead

A working group comprised of health insurance companies and midwives will continue to monitor the situation to ensure the effectiveness of the new contract and address any emerging challenges. The improvements are set to take effect on April 1st.