Overview
- The government’s expert commission, which delivered its 66-point report Monday in Berlin, says up to €42.3 billion could be mobilized next year to cover an expected €15 billion shortfall without raising contribution rates.
- Analysts warn the gap could reach about €40 billion by 2030, so the package leans on tighter cost growth for doctors, hospitals and drugmakers, evidence-based coverage rules, and required second opinions before some planned surgeries.
- One of the largest levers would move roughly €12 billion in non-insurance costs for people on basic income support from the sickness funds to the federal budget.
- Patient-facing changes on the list include ending free partner co‑insurance and lifting drug co‑pays to €7.50–€15 per prescription, measures that critics say would hit low‑income households, part‑time workers and many women.
- The commission also proposes higher taxes on tobacco and alcohol plus a tiered levy on sugary drinks, while early reactions split along familiar lines as insurers back the scope to hold rates steady and social groups, unions and medical associations push back.