Doctors warn that planned cuts could jeopardize care and research at Vienna's AKH

The Vienna Chamber of Physicians and the Medical University of Vienna have issued a joint warning about a proposed reduction of 200 full-time medical posts at the AKH. They note that the budget for public universities in the 2028-2030 period is set lower than the 18 billion euros originally advocated, creating a shortfall for the university hospital. With roughly 1,700 doctors already working at the AKH and the majority of the university’s budget allocated to clinical services, officials say any cuts would directly shrink patient-treatment capacity and extend waiting lists, putting extra strain on other Viennese hospitals.

University rector Markus Müller emphasized the institution’s triple role in research, teaching and patient care, warning that reductions would hit all three pillars. Former chamber president Thomas Szekeres added that funding cuts could undermine Vienna’s standing in global medical research and drive top scientists away. The chamber is calling for a summit involving the science ministry, the city and medical representatives to find a sustainable financing solution.