The rising costs of nursing home care are prompting calls for intervention and a re-evaluation of funding responsibilities. A recent analysis by the Association of Substitute Health Insurers reveals that the out-of-pocket expenses for nursing home residents have reached a new high, surpassing €3,000 per month on average for the first year of care. This represents a year-on-year increase of €237.
The German Foundation for Patient Protection is advocating for a cap on the core costs of nursing home care, proposing a limit of €1,000 per month. Furthermore, they are urging states to assume greater financial responsibility, specifically covering training and investment costs within the sector. Foundation director Eugen Brysch has expressed concern that the current system is placing an unsustainable burden on residents, with personal contributions for the first year of care having increased by over 41% in the last three years alone.
Brysch argues that the current situation, with the proposed reform being delegated to a joint federal-state commission, avoids a necessary assumption of responsibility by the government. He believes that a shift in funding model, incorporating the proposed cap and increased state involvement, could potentially reduce average nursing home costs across Germany by approximately €600 per month.
While stressing the importance of residents continuing to contribute towards accommodation, meals and enhanced comfort levels, the Foundation suggests this approach will allow younger and middle generations to safeguard their own financial futures. A new working group, comprised of both federal and state representatives, is currently tasked with developing potential solutions by the end of the year.