On 1 January 2020, a new, reformed training course to become a nursing specialist came into force in Germany. This training combines the three former branches of nursing - paediatric nursing, nursing and geriatric nursing - into a uniform occupational profile. This reform simplifies training, improves career opportunities and increases the attractiveness of the nursing profession. But what exactly has changed and what impact has this reform had on the care sector and society?
Background and legal basis
The new nursing training programme was Nursing Professions Act (PflBG) which sets out the legal basis and requirements for training. The aim of the law is to improve the quality of care and increase flexibility for carers. The reform is intended to make it easier for prospective carers to move between different care areas during and after their training. Before the PflBG, trainees had to decide on one of the three branches of nursing care before starting their training, which often led to professional hurdles if they wanted to change later.
A key aim of the PflBG is to retain nursing staff in the profession in the long term, as the demand for qualified specialists in Germany continues to grow.
Structure and content of the new nursing training programme
The generalist nursing training programme has a modular structure and is divided into several sections. In the first two years of training, a broad range of basic knowledge is taught that is relevant to all areas of care. For example, during this phase, trainees learn basic nursing activities such as wound care, administering medication and documentation. These skills are of central importance in paediatric care, nursing and geriatric care.
ExampleLisa, a trainee, initially wanted to specialise in nursing, but is now thinking about choosing geriatric nursing in her third year of training. Thanks to the generalist training, she can decide to specialise in geriatric nursing or remain active in all areas without any additional hurdles.
After two years, the trainees have a choice: they can either complete their training as a nursing assistant or complete the third year of training to become a nursing specialist. In the third year, they can then either continue their generalist training or opt for a specialisation, for example in paediatric nursing.
No school fees and training allowance
Another advantage of the new model is that it is free of charge: unlike in the past, training is now free of tuition fees. This relieves the burden on many trainees and increases the attractiveness of the training programme. In addition, nursing trainees receive a monthly salary, which can vary depending on the federal state and employer. On average, the remuneration is around €1,040 in the first year, €1,100 in the second year and €1,200 in the third year.
ExampleJonas, who decided to train as a nursing specialist, receives a salary of €1,100 in the second year in his federal state. As he previously feared the financial burden of paying school fees, the allowance and the new cost-free programme were a decisive argument for him to start the course.
Importance for foreign nursing staff
The reform also has an impact on foreign nursing staff. Germany is increasingly endeavouring to attract skilled workers from abroad to the nursing professions. The generalist training programme creates a transparent and standardised basis that facilitates the recognition of foreign qualifications and degrees.
Legal basis for recognitionThe Recognition Act (Act to Improve the Assessment and Recognition of Professional Qualifications Acquired Abroad) makes it easier for nursing staff from abroad to have their qualifications recognised in Germany. In practice, this means that nursing staff from abroad have access to a standardised training pathway in Germany. These standards help to equalise differences in quality and make it easier for foreign nursing staff to enter the profession.
ExampleMaria, a carer from the Philippines, would like to work in Germany. Thanks to the Recognition Act, she can have her qualifications recognised and, if necessary, adapt them to the German generalist training. This makes it easier for her to start her career and gives her the opportunity to work in various care areas in Germany.
The aim of the reform: to make nursing care more attractive
The Nursing Professions Act and the generalist training programme are part of the efforts to make the nursing profession in Germany more attractive in the long term. The wide range of development opportunities and the improved financial situation during training are increasing interest in nursing training. The ability to switch between areas allows for flexible career planning that can be adapted to individual needs.
However, there are also critical voices: Particularly in geriatric care, there are concerns that nursing staff could migrate to nursing due to the generally better pay and working conditions.
ExampleA nursing home for the elderly in a small town notices that several of its nursing staff are expressing an interest in switching to nursing. As nursing is often more highly paid, there is great concern that generalist training could increase competition for specialised staff in geriatric nursing.
Initial effects and prospects
Initial positive developments have already been recorded since the introduction of generalist training. For example, the number of trainees in nursing has risen slightly since 2020. At the same time, surveys show that the new flexibility and better pay are key reasons why young people are opting for training.
However, it remains to be seen whether the reform can fulfil the long-term goals of solving the shortage of nursing staff and ensuring the provision of care. Experts point out that in addition to training, further efforts are needed in care policy in order to sustainably improve working conditions.
Conclusion: A step in the right direction
The generalist nursing training programme is an important step towards making the nursing profession more attractive and strengthening the German healthcare system. Broader training, better remuneration and the recognition of foreign qualifications will make the profession more versatile and international. The coming years will show whether the reform will help to stabilise the nursing sector and improve the care situation in Germany in the long term.
We will keep you up to date on further developments in nursing training.
