In the debate on curbing the rising healthcare costs, Freiburg economist Bernd Raffelhüschen advocates for three unpaid sick days and more self-participation of statutorily insured individuals in paying for medication and medical costs.
According to “Bild” (Tuesday’s edition), Raffelhüschen said the introduction of one to three unpaid days off is sensible. “This wouldn’t create a social problem. Unpaid days off are a good way for individuals to decide whether they are fit for work or not” Raffelhüschen stated. However, he added, unpaid days off are “only a drop in the bucket”.
Raffelhüschen further emphasized the need for more self-participation of statutorily insured individuals to alleviate the burden on health insurance companies. “Patients should, for example, cover the first 500 or 1,000 euros in medical expenses each year. It’s also possible that all medicines could be paid for with 20% out of pocket. It’s clear that we need a different understanding of health: that one should also take responsibility for one’s illness” the economist told “Bild”.