Greifswald: No more long waiting times before operations!

Greifswald: No more long waiting times before operations!

The introduction of a preoperative admission ward at Greifswald University Hospital has brought a breath of fresh air. Since May 2023, patients have been able to be prepared for their operations there without long waiting times. Previously, many people had to wait for hours in the corridors of the hospital, which not only caused resentment but also increased nervousness before the procedure. This new facility aims to create a calmer atmosphere that will help patients reduce their anxiety and better prepare for surgery.

The positive development in the healthcare system is accompanied by other aspects in the region. The “Rahsegler Greif” support association has launched an online petition to preserve the historic sailing training ship “Greif”. The renovation of the ship is under pressure because unexpected additional costs of three million euros have arisen. This financial hurdle must now be assessed by the citizens of Greifswald on November 17th.

A new phase of life and challenges in the community

Another important change in Greifswald: Heinz-Jürgen Kowalek, the long-time owner of the Reusenhaus in Wieck, is retiring to keep a promise to his wife. He ran the business for over 30 years and will be replaced by a successor who has already been appointed. This ensures the continued existence of the Reusenhaus, which was a popular meeting point for many citizens.

But not everything in the region is going smoothly. The community of Behrenhoff is still fighting against the planned construction of five wind turbines, which will be more than twice as high as Greifswald Cathedral. The community has been resisting this plan for ten years, but Mayor Karsten Birnbaum expresses little hope of success with the latest objection.

A ray of hope in dental health

Good news comes from the area of ​​oral hygiene: In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, children have significantly less tooth decay than 20 years ago. This encouraging result is attributed to a regional program called “Healthy Teeth from the Start.” Professor Christian Splieth from Greifswald University Medicine was awarded the Wrigley Prophylaxis Prize for these successes, which shows how important preventive measures are.

Overall, it is clear that the people in Greifswald face challenges, but also benefit from positive developments. The initiatives in the healthcare system and the successes in dental health are bright spots, while exciting political decisions are pending.