Health Insurance Discussion Veers Off Course - "It's Unfair to Penalize Sick Days"
The German black-red government has unveiled a comprehensive healthcare reform plan aimed at stabilising the statutory health insurance (GKV) and reducing wage-related costs. The proposed reform includes cost-saving targets, structural reforms, and a return to a practice fee model for doctor's visits.
At the heart of the reform is the aim to stop "doctor-hopping" and restrict the free choice of doctor. The government plans to introduce a primary care system, requiring insured individuals to go to their general practitioner first and obtain a referral to see a specialist. This practice was in place between 2004 and 2012 and is now being reconsidered by the Federal Association of German Employers.
Under the proposed practice fee model, employers would demand a fee for each doctor's visit, unlike the previous model where a flat rate of 10 euros per quarter was paid. This change could potentially impact the financial situation of individuals seeking medical care during sickness.
The black-red cabinet also proposes a series of short-term measures to stabilise deficit-ridden social insurance funds. These measures include reviewing the previous government’s hospital reform, strengthening rural pharmacies, and enhancing the role of the health economy, medical technology, and pharmaceuticals.
However, the proposed changes have drawn criticism from various quarters. Nicola Buhlinger-Goepfarth, chairwoman of the Association of House Doctors, criticises the move, stating that even preventive examinations and vaccinations would be chargeable. She also expresses concern that chronically ill people would be losers in such a fee reform.
The employer-friendly Institute of the German Economy suggests implementing "quota days" where salary payment is suspended or paid at a lower level for some days during sick leave. This proposal, advocated by Carl-Victor Wachs, spokesman for the "Initiative New Social Market Economy", raises concerns about the potential impact on individuals' financial situation during sickness.
Exceptions to this rule will only be made for eye doctors and gynecologists under the proposed primary care system. The additional contribution in statutory health insurance is expected to rise significantly in the coming years, adding to the financial burden on insured individuals.
The return of the practice fee is a contentious issue, as it could potentially burden individuals financially during their sick leave. The proposed healthcare reform aims to stop "doctor-hopping" and restrict the free choice of doctor, but the potential impact on chronically ill people and those who rely heavily on their salary remains a matter of concern.
