German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach has unveiled a comprehensive reform of the country's emergency care system.

The plan, approved by the cabinet, aims to reduce overcrowding in hospital emergency rooms and improve patient care.

Key changes include the introduction of integrated emergency centers at hospitals and a new nationwide hotline (116 117) for non-life-threatening cases.

These centers will combine hospital emergency departments with outpatient services, providing better triage and care coordination.

The reform also emphasizes telemedicine, allowing doctors to issue prescriptions and sick notes remotely in some cases.

While medical associations generally support the initiative, concerns about staffing and implementation remain.

The changes are set to take effect in early 2025, marking a significant shift in how Germans access emergency medical services.