Weaning

Quality Agreement for Ventilator Weaning

The number of patients with chronic respiratory insufficiency who are ventilated at home is continuously increasing in Germany. Studies, however, show that about 60% of these individuals could be weaned from ventilation at least temporarily. This prompted SBK to develop a quality agreement addressing this issue. The agreement was created to assess each patient’s potential for ventilator weaning in a structured and individualized way and to provide access to specialized care in a dedicated clinic (weaning center).

What is the goal of the quality agreement?

Together with the specialists at the clinics, we aim to guarantee patients the best possible care. The primary focus is to improve quality of life and life expectancy by avoiding long-term invasive outpatient ventilation.

How can I or my relative participate?

Discuss our offer with your treating doctor. They will coordinate directly with the clinic’s specialist team. Together, they will assess the patient’s individual weaning potential and inform you of the results.

How does the treatment work?

During the weaning process, the patient is admitted to the clinic as an inpatient. Under medical supervision, an individualized, structured treatment plan is created to gradually retrain independent breathing. Throughout the stay, care is provided by specially trained nurses and medical specialists.

Which clinics participate in the quality agreement?

An overview of the current contracted clinics is available directly from your care consultant. They will support you in choosing the right clinic and provide all necessary contact information. You can get in touch with your care consultant through your personal SBK consultant.

Further information for insured persons

If you are insured with SBK and have further questions about the quality agreement for ventilator weaning, please contact your personal SBK consultant. The contact details can be found here.

Further information for service providers

If you are a service provider and would like more information about our quality agreement, please send your request to the following email address: qv.krankenhaus@sbk.org