Overview
- The Bundesrat blocked the roughly €1.8–2 billion plan and referred it to a Dec. 17 mediation committee after states objected to hospital‑focused savings.
- Health Minister Nina Warken and Chancellor Friedrich Merz express confidence in a compromise, with several leaders expecting votes next week in Bundestag and Bundesrat.
- One option under discussion is suspending the 2026 "most‑favored" clause to limit hospital remuneration growth, which insurer groups view as a needed but short‑term fix.
- Brandenburg pushed for adjustments to the hospital reform and alternative savings such as easing non‑insurance obligations, noting that about 80% of its clinics run deficits.
- KBV chief Andreas Gassen called for more ambulatory care and further clinic closures and proposed higher alcohol and tobacco taxes plus ending coverage for homoeopathy and some health apps.