Leadership Change at VDGH: Dr. Peter Schüßler Takes Over as Chairman – Prof. Hecken Highlights Need for National MedTech Strategy

Leadership change at the German Diagnostics Industry Association (VDGH): At the general assembly in Berlin, Dr. Peter Schüßler (Bio-Techne) was elected as the new chairman. He succeeds Ulrich Schmid (A. Menarini Diagnostics), who had held the position since 2018 and did not run for re-election.

Stefanie Giesener (DiaSys Diagnostic Systems) was newly elected as vice chair. Dirk Schick (Roche Diagnostics) remains treasurer. The board is completed by Dr. Liane Bauer (Abbott), Dr. Anika Jöcker (Cepheid), Dr. Anette Leue (Promega), Dr. Maxime Ndolumingo (bioMérieux), Dr. Matthias Probst (QIAGEN), and Ulrich Schmid.

A signal to politics: In his inaugural speech, Schüßler emphasized the need for clear political direction: “We need a national MedTech strategy that systematically fosters innovation.” Recent statements by Chancellor Friedrich Merz were a good start – but now implementation must follow.

“The healthcare industry can be a true driver of innovation for Germany as a business location,” Schüßler added. VDGH has already submitted concrete proposals and is ready for open dialogue with policymakers and healthcare partners.

Panel Evening with Prof. Josef Hecken

On the eve of the general assembly, Prof. Josef Hecken, impartial chairman of the Federal Joint Committee (G-BA), gave a keynote speech titled “Healthcare of the Future – What Strategic Decisions Are Needed Now?” addressing key challenges in the healthcare system.

Hecken emphasized the importance of precise diagnostics for modern, cross-sectoral healthcare. From prevention to personalized therapy, diagnostics is a key to effective care management.