Glonn's Hospice Island shuts down after just three years of vital care

Hospice Island in Glonn is set to close after just three and a half years in operation. The facility, which opened in 2022 to address a shortage of inpatient hospice care in the region, now faces an abrupt shutdown due to severe staff shortages. Four residents have already been moved to Marienheim nursing home as a result.

The hospice was originally designed to accommodate up to 10 patients, filling a critical gap in the Ebersberg district. However, its financial stability relied heavily on donations, as patients often had to cover part of their daily costs—estimated at around €100. Despite these challenges, the facility provided essential care where no other local hospice services existed.

The sudden departure of two key staff members left the hospice unable to maintain operations. Neither Caritas, the organisation managing the facility, nor Marienheim has publicly commented on the closure. Meanwhile, the Ebersberg district administration has been supporting the hospice with annual deficit coverage of up to €75,000.

With no alternative hospice services in the area, terminally ill patients will now have to seek care in neighbouring districts. Nearby options include the Hospice Service Ebersberg, which offers 8-12 palliative care beds, and the Agaplesion Bethanien Hospital in Vaterstetten, with around 10 specialised palliative beds.

The closure of Hospice Island leaves a significant void in local palliative care. Those in need of hospice services must now travel outside the Ebersberg district for treatment. The loss of the facility also raises concerns about future access to end-of-life care in the region.