GKV Chief Considers Adjusting Co-Payment Policies

The head of Germany's statutory health insurance, Oliver Blatt, has indicated a willingness to explore adjustments to co-payment requirements as the government seeks to stabilize contributions for health insurance. During recent discussions, he emphasized the urgency of preventing further increases in additional contributions for policyholders in the upcoming year.

Blatt highlighted the significant rise in expenditures that have outpaced income, leading to a projected continuation of additional contribution increases into 2026. He noted that the lack of legislative action thus far has left the issue unresolved.

The financial landscape for health insurance has been challenging, with a series of substantial contribution hikes already enacted this year. The assessment committee is currently analyzing the financial trajectory, with a report due by mid-October to determine if additional contributions will indeed be necessary.

Federal Health Minister Nina Warken is actively engaged in discussions aimed at preventing further hikes in contributions. However, there remains a notable financial gap of approximately four billion euros, raising questions about the feasibility of short-term budgetary adjustments.

Blatt criticized the proliferation of commissions tasked with proposing reforms, suggesting that if there were fewer legislative proposals, more progress could have been made. A commission focused on health insurance reform is expected to deliver initial recommendations by March 2026, while another group will address financing for long-term care within the month. Additionally, a broader examination of social state reforms is anticipated by year-end, with proposed changes to pension systems to follow next year.

The statutory health insurance system is advocating for a cap on expenditures, with Blatt reiterating the proposal to link spending to revenue. This approach is designed to ensure that while there may still be room for expenditure increases, they would not be unlimited.