The new legislation aims to provide greater flexibility in local implementation, allowing for extended transition periods and exceptions to treatment quality standards. Federal Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) described the law as a viable compromise, emphasizing the need for both specialization in complex procedures and adequate basic care, particularly in rural areas. While several states expressed ongoing concerns regarding the law’s alignment with their demands, they acknowledged the necessity for planning certainty. The reform, initially enacted in late 2024 under former Minister Karl Lauterbach (SPD), seeks to alleviate financial pressures on hospitals and enhance specialization.