First Aid Newsletter

Aid organizations (DRK, Johanniter, Malteser, ASB, DLRG) warn of structural underfunding of emergency services through planned limitations on compensation increases in the GKV-Beitragssatzstabilisierungsgesetz. The reform could fail if the funding gap is not closed. This endangers nationwide emergency care and delays necessary modernization.

Emergency paramedics are allowed to use different measures and medications in various federal states despite identical training – many unnecessarily wait for emergency physicians, although qualified emergency responders could help. Studies show that these regulatory delays lead to worse patient outcomes. A Citizen Deliberation Forum is to revise the regulations.

The updated ERC guidelines introduce new infant compression techniques, discontinue cortisone for anaphylaxis, and increase focus on AED availability and training. These changes are now mandatory in first aid courses and occupational first aid training. Training providers and employers must adapt their curricula.

DLRG records breakthrough with over 10,000 passed junior rescuer badge exams, DRK deploys 18-year-old volunteers for the first time at a major event (Rock am Ring). This signals successful youth recruitment despite funding crises and demonstrates willingness to integrate younger personnel.

Johanniter Hilfsdienst achieves international WHO classification as EMT Type 1 Fixed and signs cooperation agreements with universities and other emergency services (e.g., DRK Mittelhessen, HSD Döpfer). This professionalization and networking strengthens response capability for mass casualty events and forms the foundation for nationwide emergency reform.