125 years of the Deaconess Hospital Leipzig: celebrations and future plans!

125 years of the Deaconess Hospital Leipzig: celebrations and future plans!

October 26, 2025 is an important date for the Evangelical Deaconess Hospital Leipzig, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary today. At a ceremony that attracted 100 guests, not only was the long history of the facility looked back, but future-oriented plans were also presented. Sister Anneliese Muck, who served as a ward sister from 1967 to 1982, shared her positive memories of the cohesion of the sisterhood while she is one of the last five deaconesses to retire.

At the event, Social Mayor Martina Münch emphasized the appreciation of the community and the orientation that the hospital offers its patients and their relatives. Managing director Dirk Herrmann expressed confidence about the future of the Deaconess Hospital: “The desired clinic reform does not endanger us because we are in an excellent position,” he emphasized, referring to the company’s seven clinics and eight certified treatment centers.

Development in palliative medicine

A pioneering project at the Deaconess Hospital is the expansion of palliative medicine, for which a groundbreaking ceremony recently took place. The commissioning of our own palliative care ward with six single rooms is planned for mid-2026. The palliative medicine consultation service has already specialized in improving the quality of life of patients with advanced illnesses. This offer is aimed not only at tumor patients, but also at those with complex heart, lung or neurological diseases, which ensures holistic care. Diako Leipzig reports that…

The care offerings include, among other things, effective pain therapies and comprehensive pastoral support. The multi-professional team is made up of specialized doctors, nurses and psychologists. There is also an initiative called the “Palliative Pinboard,” which serves to encourage personal reflection on life and death.

Funding and future visions

State Secretary Dagmar Neukirch announced during the celebrations that the Deaconess Hospital will receive over 2.6 million euros in funding for the development of palliative care. In addition, the renovation of the emergency room and a number of digitalization projects are also being funded. Pastor Christian Kreusel emphasized how important the balance between tradition and innovation is for the hospital's identity.

The story of the Deaconess Hospital is part of a larger narrative framework that deals with the development of hospitals and their importance in society. The German Society for Hospital History offers insights into these historical debates, which range from topics such as “patient well-being” to “cost pressure” to “coercive measures”. The organization aims to raise awareness of historical institutions and their preservation as cultural monuments Hospitalstory.de reports that….

With these extensive initiatives and the strong commitment to patient care, the Evangelical Deaconess Hospital Leipzig confirms its role as an important player in the region's healthcare system and appears to be well prepared for the challenges of the future.