[Introduction of lump sum payments in Germany--a comparison and prospects].

The implementation of a "revolutionary" payment system for inpatient care in German hospitals causes discussions. The development concerning "Fallpauschalen" and "Sonderentgelte" is described and compared with the evaluation of the implementation of DRG's in the USA. Relevant aspects result in accompanying research of the implementation of the payment system as well as possible tasks for the medical service of the German statutory health insurance bodies (= MDK).