Concerns over the sustainability of Germany’s care insurance system are prompting discussions about potential reforms, according to Steffen Kampeter, Managing Director of the Confederation of German Employer Associations (BDA).
Kampeter, in comments to the “Rheinische Post” newspaper, indicated support for considerations by the German government to reassess the current criteria for care grade 1. He emphasized that without reform, contributions to the care insurance system risk a significant surge.
He welcomed the initiative by Federal Minister of Health Nina Warken to initiate this debate, characterizing it as demonstrating courage and responsibility. Kampeter argued that the care insurance system should prioritize individuals facing substantial care needs which they cannot independently manage. He suggested that the current grade 1 classification shouldn’t be excluded from reform deliberations.
Alongside adjustments to benefits, Kampeter stressed the importance of strengthening the responsibility of individuals with regard to their own care through targeted incentives for preventative measures and private provision. He believes this dual approach – adjusting eligibility and promoting personal responsibility – is crucial for a balanced and sustainable reform of the care insurance system.