FDP: Closing the psychiatric hospital in Merzig is a slap in the face!

FDP: Closing the psychiatric hospital in Merzig is a slap in the face!

The decision to close the psychiatric department at the SHG Clinic in Merzig is causing a social and political stir. As of June 1, 2025, the clinic will close all inpatient psychiatric beds, which is viewed as a significant step backwards in medical care in the Merzig-Wadern district. The Free Democrats (FDP) express sharp criticism of this development, which is described as a “slap in the face” for the affected patients and their families, as Michael Nickolaus, a member of the Merzig-Wadern district council, explains. He emphasizes that psychiatric care for the region is now no longer available, which could significantly affect health care. If you believe saarbruecker-zeitung.de, the loss of this facility is also perceived as a negative development in the Green Circle.

The management of the SHG clinic confirmed the closure, which became necessary due to ongoing staffing problems. Allegedly, for the past two years, Merzig Psychiatry has been working primarily on a fee-only basis, which has almost tripled the operating costs. In view of the current situation, the clinic has already relocated 20 beds from Merzig to Völklingen. Now the last eight beds will follow. According to sr.de, the remaining patients will also be accommodated in Völklingen. This measure shows the significant challenges that the Ministry of Health sees with regard to mental health care in the district.

Political reactions and demands

The Ministry of Health was informed of the closure on Wednesday and asked to find a solution immediately. Health Minister Magnus Jung (SPD) has emphasized how important it is for mentally ill people to have psychiatric care within easy reach. The problems in Merzig Psychiatry are not new; Alternative solutions have been sought for a long time. The ministry holds the SHG clinic responsible because it is responsible for the care mandate. It is noteworthy that the hospital plan originally proposed 76 beds for the entire county, highlighting the urgency of an effective solution.

The Merziger SHG Clinic was in financial difficulties even before the closure was announced and filed for bankruptcy in the summer of 2023. Although the closure of obstetrics and psychiatry was originally considered, basic care was maintained. However, due to the full capacity, acute patients were often turned away, which further illustrates the precarious situation.