[Rheumatology centers (according to G-BA regulations) as pivotal elements of high-quality integrated acute inpatient care for people with inflammatory rheumatic diseases in Germany].

Subsequent to the publication of the Federal Joint Committee (G-BA) regulations in the Federal Gazette in March 2020, G‑BA rheumatology centers have been established in Germany as key facilities for providing high-quality acute inpatient care to people with inflammatory rheumatic diseases. In accordance with the prevailing regulations, by May 2026, 31 facilities in 14 of the 16 federal states had been designated, including 24 G-BA rheumatology centers for adults and 7 G‑BA rheumatology centers for pediatric and adolescent rheumatology.The review article describes the evolution and contemporary state of the G‑BA rheumatology centers in Germany, in conjunction with an exposition of the structural prerequisites, task profiles and functions in the care of inpatients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases at other hospitals or specialized rehabilitation facilities. The emphasis is on networking and quality assurance activities, scientific and guideline-based work, the evaluation of innovative treatment and the role of the centers in continuing medical education as special tasks.