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Tumor patient Norbert Kumm: Treatment in Elmshorn is becoming a crisis!
Find out why tumor treatment became a problem in Elmshorn and what health challenges affect Germany.
Tumor patient Norbert Kumm: Treatment in Elmshorn is becoming a crisis!
In November 2025, the case of Norbert Kumm from Tensbuettel-Roest caused a stir when his treatment for a tumor in Elmshorn became a real problem. According to a report from Boyens Media, Kumm is frustrated with the difficulties he is having with the healthcare system. Instead of a smooth process, the patient repeatedly encountered unexpected challenges that shook his trust in medical care.[Boyen's Media]
Kumm describes how he encountered massive hurdles when coordinating his treatments that placed unnecessary strain on his healing process. “I never imagined I would have to overcome so many obstacles just to get the treatment I needed,” he expressed. These concerns are not isolated, as many people in Germany are struggling with a healthcare system that has come under increasing criticism in recent years.
Growing problems in the German healthcare system
Current analyzes show that the German healthcare system is falling short of expectations despite high expenditure of over 400 billion euros annually. A study in the journal Lancet Public Health highlights structural problems. Although Germany has the financial resources, it suffers from inadequate central control, which leads to a patchwork of responsibilities. This highlights the need for reforms that require a stronger public health strategy.[BIPS Institute]
According to experts, the main problems are the neglected prevention and the influence of lobbies. In addition, it became clear during the Covid-19 pandemic that the federal structures of the system have significant disadvantages. Kumm is just one example of how the complexity of the system puts additional strain on patients at the crucial moment.
Political landscape in transition
Trust in the healthcare system is also reflected in current surveys on the political situation. A survey by YouGov shows that the CDU/CSU with 27% and the AfD with 25% are the strongest parties in elections. The SPD, on the other hand, fell to 14% - a further expression of citizens' dissatisfaction with the existing conditions. In the 2025 federal election, the CDU/CSU even achieved 28.6%, while the AfD reached a new high of 20.8%.[Statista]
These political changes are part of a broader discussion about the future of the healthcare system in Germany. Experts are calling for a greater focus on prevention and health education in order not to remain trapped in a cost spiral. As the pressure on the healthcare system grows, patients like Kumm see that it urgently needs to be realigned.
The challenges Norbert Kumm is experiencing could serve as a wake-up call for many who hold on to a healthcare system that is in dire need of reform. It remains to be hoped that the voices of those affected will be heard and that the necessary political course will be taken soon.