Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) defended the planned increases in patient contributions and associated costs. According to her statement to “Welt am Sonntag” she argued that the co-payment limits have not been adjusted for over two decades, making the planned hike defensible. She noted that previous times were characterized by growth and prosperity, allowing for sufficient funding for various services. However, she stated that due to numerous changing factors, adjustments are necessary, and resources may need to catch up to current needs.
Warken also addressed concerns raised by doctors that patients would face difficulties securing appointments following the reform of the statutory health insurance system (GKV). Dismissing these worries, the Minister responded that “threats don’t help”. She refuted the claim, which sometimes creates the impression that services are no longer reimbursed, stating this is factually incorrect. She confirmed that doctors will continue to receive compensation, which she emphasized will also increase annually.
While signaling flexibility regarding changes, Warken set clear prerequisites for any adjustments. She expressed her willingness to modify elements of the system provided that the overall budget remains intact. She strongly advocated retaining the principle that every sector must contribute a portion proportional to its respective expenditures within the system, believing her current proposal represents a balanced middle ground.