HEIDELBERG, Germany — Heidelberg Hospital’s Acute Care Clinic is cutting back its hours from round the clock to about 90 hours a week.

The change goes into effect April 1, according to a hospital news release. The clinic, which until recently served as an emergency room, will be open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends, holidays and U.S. Army Europe training holidays.

The reduction in hours is another step toward becoming a care center, hospital officials said. April 1 was chosen as the date to start reduced hours because respiratory illnesses, one of the reasons people go to the clinic, will be on the wane, hospital officials said.

People with medical emergencies are being directed to call 117 or 06221-57117, which will bring a German ambulance and head to a German emergency room.

Those who aren’t sure whether their condition can wait until the clinic opens are being advised to call a 24-hour Nurse Advice line. That number is 0080-825-1600 or 00800-4759-2330.

The hospital is in the process of converting to a health center, without the capability to perform inpatient services including surgery and obstetrics, starting this summer.

Col. Kyle Campbell, hospital commander, said the hospital will keep the public updated on future changes.

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