Graubünden hospital at a loss despite patient growth

Post on: 30.04.2025

The Graubünden Hospital closed the 2024 financial year with a loss of 339,000 francs, against an increase in the number of patients and a growing operating result. The balance sheet in the red is mainly due to an increase in costs related to the structure of the foundation and new bureaucratic directives.

Patients are increasing, but so are costs

In 2024, the hospital in Graubünden welcomed 25,644 inpatient patients, with an increase of 2.9% compared to the previous year. Revenue from outpatient services grew significantly to CHF 148.9 million,

However, against a positive operating result of 543.4 million francs (+5.3%), operating and personnel costs rose even more: 514.7 million, an increase of 5.6%. A gap that led to the final loss.

The causes of the deficit

The president of the foundation, Martin Schmid, explained that the increase in costs is largely due to new health reforms and regulations which do not bring a direct benefit to patients. The hospital's director, Hugo Keune, also highlighted how the health rates are not adequate to cover inflation, making it difficult to maintain financial balance.

"In light of the complicated environment in which we operate," said Keune, "we can consider ourselves only partially satisfied with the result."

Investments for the future

Despite economic difficulties, 2024 was also a year of strategic milestones for the Graubünden hospital. Key successes include:

• Confirmation of the paediatric intensive care unit, thanks to strong support from the population.

• Advancement of digitalisation of hospital processes.

• Opening of a centre for oncology research, testifying to the commitment to innovation and quality of care.

The Graubünden Hospital remains a point of reference for the healthcare of the Canton, but looks to the future with the awareness that a structural adjustment of tariffs and a regulatory simplification will be necessary in order to guarantee the sustainability of the system.