Baden-Baden citizens decide: the future of the clinic on June 29th!

Baden-Baden citizens decide: the future of the clinic on June 29th!

An exciting time lies ahead for Baden-Baden! On June 29, 2025, citizens will be asked whether they agree to the construction of a new central hospital. This decision could not only affect local healthcare, but also send signals for the entire region.

The citizens' initiative "Yes! To the Baden-Baden clinic location" has managed to achieve an important milestone. The local council approved the referendum after over 2,900 valid signatures were submitted, which met the formal requirements for the request. Matthias Hirsch, a representative of the initiative, was full of praise for the cooperation with the city administration, but expressed criticism of the local council's previous decision to ignore over 6,000 signatures in another citizens' initiative. The question now in the room is: Will citizens vote for or against the new clinic location on June 29th?

Healthcare in focus

The SPD parliamentary group has also commented on the debate and supports the referendum as a democratic means. At the same time, they warn that a successful referendum could endanger health care, especially due to the dilapidated infrastructure of the current clinic locations. Clinical planning is not only important for Baden-Baden, but also affects the entire region. The new location at Lake Münchfeld could make sense, but there are concerns about the impact on healthcare in the city. The SPD would like to discuss these issues openly with voters and is committed to finding a realistic solution for high-quality and affordable health care.

Dr. Mark Lopatecki, member of the Pro Klinikum Baden-Baden i.Gr. association, emphasizes in his guest commentary how important modern healthcare is. The discussion about the Mittelbaden Central Clinic revolves around care close to home and the integration of existing structures. The old building in Balg not only represents tradition, but should also be part of a sustainable, innovative clinic ensemble. “Maintaining existing structures” is emphasized as an important aspect to ensure sustainability.

A referendum with consequences

The accessibility of the new clinic location is addressed as a central point: whether by car, bus, train or bicycle – the connection should be guaranteed for all citizens. The goal of the planned central hospital is to be more than just a quiescent monolith; it is intended to act as the center of a network. Digital efficiency as well as mobile services and digital consultation hours also play an important role in the future of healthcare. If you look at the arguments, it can be said that this referendum not only has a local dimension, but also a political one.

Overall, there is a common thread running through the discussions: The decision, which will be made on June 29th, is a test for patient-oriented and sustainable healthcare in Baden-Baden. Whether the city will become a pioneer for an equitable healthcare network remains to be seen. Citizens are called upon to cast their vote and help shape this important decision. Ignoring the referendum would be a mistake, and the chances of livable health care in the city are in jeopardy.

Further information is provided in a brochure intended to inform citizens about the aspects of the referendum. Incidentally, the costs for carrying out the referendum amount to around 110,000 euros.

An exciting topic that affects everyone in Baden-Baden! Citizen engagement and dialogue with those responsible could be the key to a future-oriented healthcare structure. Let's take a look at the developments together and take part in the referendum!