The accident surgery unit at the Bruck hospital in Styria will cease handling emergency cases from January 13 due to a severe shortage of medical staff.

This decision has sparked significant criticism, particularly from the SPÖ, who argue that the closure is unacceptable and accuse the hospital management of mismanagement.

Currently, the unit handles around 120 patients daily, with 70 being emergency cases.

The remaining patients, who have scheduled appointments, will continue to receive care.

The hospital's medical director, Erich Schaflinger, emphasized the need for structural reforms in the regional healthcare system, citing a shortage of 64 doctors.

An alternative plan, which would have involved more extensive changes, was considered but ultimately not pursued.

The changes mean that minor injuries will still be treated in Bruck, while more severe cases will be redirected to hospitals in Leoben or Graz.