Tuesday, February 3, 2026

IKK Südwest Takes on Official Health Partnership for the National Games Saarland 2026

IKK Südwest is the official health partner of the National Games Saarland 2026. Together, the partners are sending a strong message for health equity, prevention, and the self-determined participation of people with intellectual disabilities.

As the largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities in Germany, the National Games are committed to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle far beyond athletic competition. A key element of this commitment is the Healthy Athletes program, which helps close gaps in healthcare, strengthens prevention, and delivers health services directly on site.

As part of the National Games, IKK Südwest contributes its extensive expertise in health promotion in a targeted manner. “Everyone, regardless of their individual circumstances, should have access to healthcare. For us, this partnership is not only a matter of the heart, but also an opportunity to reach people who are often overlooked,” says Prof. Dr. Jörg Loth, Chairman of the Board of IKK Südwest. The National Games in Saarland provide an ideal platform to raise awareness for accessible and inclusive health promotion.

As the only health insurance fund headquartered and founded in Saarland, IKK Südwest also shares a special regional responsibility with the National Games. “Prevention is a key issue – especially for people with disabilities. Through this partnership, we want to help ensure that people receive sustainable support not only for sports activities but also for a healthy everyday life,” Prof. Dr. Loth adds.

The partnership will be brought to life during the Games through a wide range of initiatives. Among other things, the IKK Aktivmobil will be deployed at several venues as a mobile health center. Athletes and visitors alike will be able to take advantage of free health checks and receive individual consultations. In addition, panel discussions with experts from politics and the healthcare sector will address current topics related to prevention and health promotion.

Social media will also play a key role in the partnership. Through joint campaigns with athletes and experts, IKK Südwest will highlight important health and prevention topics and provide practical tips for a healthier everyday life – also aimed at strengthening health awareness among people with disabilities.

“The National Games stand for connection, recognition, and participation. With IKK Südwest at our side, we are creating sustainable health services and further reducing barriers within the healthcare system,” says Managing Director Sven Albrecht. Noemi Woock, Head of Health, adds: “Many people with intellectual disabilities face barriers in accessing preventive care. Together, we are bringing health services directly to the people – in a clear, accessible, and practical way.”

Prof. Dr. Loth concludes by emphasizing the significance of the partnership: “This collaboration means a great deal to us. It is an important step toward greater participation for people with disabilities and a clear signal of the importance of prevention and health promotion for everyone.”