Ketteler Hospital saved as German Red Cross takes over operations

A last-minute rescue keeps a vital healthcare hub alive. Discover how Offenbach's Ketteler Hospital dodged closure—and what changes lie ahead.

, and Administrator

2026 May 8 . 6:19 AM

1 min read

The image shows a drawing of a building with a lot of wires on it, which is a plan of the Rosenhof... — The image shows a drawing of a building with a lot of wires on it, which is a plan of the Rosenhof Hospital in Hamburg, Germany. The paper has text written on it detailing the layout of the hospital, including the various rooms, hallways, and other features.

Ketteler Hospital saved as German Red Cross takes over operations

Ketteler Hospital in Offenbach will stay open after the German Red Cross (DRK) Offenbach agreed to take over its operations. The deal secures the future of the 310-bed facility and protects over 900 jobs. A formal investor agreement has now been signed, with ownership expected to transfer by the end of the year. The hospital, which offers key departments in surgery, internal medicine, gynaecology, and geriatrics, faced an uncertain future before the takeover. Under the new plan, all medical services will continue—except for obstetrics, set to close by June 30, 2026. The gynaecology department will remain active, specialising in urogynaecology, oncological care, and breast cancer treatment.

An insolvency plan will be drafted in May and submitted to the court for creditor approval. If accepted, the hospital’s debts will be restructured, allowing DRK Offenbach to assume full control. Doru Somesan, managing director of DRK Offenbach, highlighted the hospital’s importance to the region and confirmed plans to integrate it into the organisation’s network. Dietmar Eine, overseeing the restructuring, described the agreement as a workable solution. It ensures the hospital’s survival while maintaining reliable medical care for the local community.

The takeover guarantees the long-term operation of Ketteler Hospital and preserves its role in regional healthcare. With most departments continuing as usual, patients and staff will see minimal disruption. The final transfer of ownership is expected before the year ends, pending court approval.