Following the longest government formation process in Austrian history, a new federal government was appointed in early March 2025 after 155 days of negotiations. The coalition consists of the conservative Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP), the Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPÖ) and NEOS – The New Austria and Liberal Forum.
The health agenda remains within the large Federal Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection. Korinna Schumann was appointed Federal Minister of Health. Prior to this role, she served as Vice President of the Austrian Trade Union Federation and as Member of the Federal Council for the SPÖ. Ulrike Königsberger-Ludwig was appointed State Secretary in charge of health affairs. Before assuming this position, she was a member of the provincial government of Lower Austria, serving as provincial councillor for social administra-tion, health and equality.
The new government programme largely builds on the healthcare reform negotiated last year between the federal states, social insurance and the federal government (see update from Dec 2023). Its main priorities include the continued expansion of outpatient care services, improving integration, working conditions and training opportunities for the healthcare professionals and launching a workforce initiative. Additionally, the programme focuses on strengthening prevention and health promotion, enhanced structured patient guidance, improving child health and accelerating digitalization across all sectors. It also aims to secure pharmaceutical supply chains and harmonize as well as improve long-term care.