To stabilize the health insurance funds, the federal government intends to reduce sickness benefits and reimbursements for dental replacements. According to a draft proposal from the Federal Ministry of Health on the “Law to Stabilize the Contribution Rates of Statutory Health Insurance” the “Rheinische Post” reported that a 5-point reduction in sickness benefits is deemed necessary and acceptable, given the relatively high level of security provided by wage replacement and sickness benefits compared to international standards. Furthermore, the supplemental amounts provided for dental replacements will be cut back to the level that was in effect until 2020. The government suggests that, due to massive funding gaps, increasing contributions from insured individuals cannot be avoided.
The contribution assessment ceiling is also planned to be raised. The draft states that in 2027, the monthly contribution assessment ceiling will be increased by approximately 300 euros. This move aims to enhance contribution equity and generate a solidarity contribution from employers and individuals with higher incomes for the reform package. Currently, the ceiling stands at 5,812.50 euros per month.
Additionally, the federal government plans to give the health funds more time to repay loans. As part of stabilizing the contribution rates, the federal government will postpone the repayment of loans totaling 5.6 billion euros, which were granted in 2023, 2025, and 2026. Instead, these funds will now be repayable between 2035 and 2039.