Permanent quality exemptions for small hospitals under 200 beds

Small hospitals with fewer than 200 beds should be able to be permanently exempted from certain quality requirements if a local need is demonstrated. Until now, such exemptions have been more limited in time or scope. In addition, the responsible authority, the Gemeinsame Bundesausschuss, should not be allowed to impose additional bureaucratic requirements. The aim is to preserve small clinics in rural areas or across wider regions.