Debt of public hospitals in the EU

Question for written answer E-000927/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
Marcin Sypniewski (ESN)

In many Member States public hospitals are becoming increasingly indebted. Data has been published showing that more than half of hospitals in Germany are either insolvent or at the limits of solvency. In France, the total debt of public hospitals is high, with some estimates pointing to a level of EUR 30 billion. The situation is similar in Poland and other Member States.

The increase in hospital debt is influenced by operating costs, including energy, heating, gas, medicines and wages. Hospital creditors often pursue claims through legal proceedings. Compensation for debt collection and interest for late payment in commercial transactions, which is significantly higher than statutory interest, is added by creditors to the amount charged for deliveries. This generates a further cost and burden for hospitals, increasing their indebtedness.

• 1.In this connection, does the Commission see any possibility of taking legislative action to reduce the deficit in hospitals? If so, what kind of action?
• 2.Does the Commission see any possibility of exempting public hospitals from the application of Directive 2011/7/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011, so that they would not be obliged to bear the burden of additional costs?

Submitted: 5.3.2026