Health Insurance Chief Calls for Fee for Doctor's Visit - Germany’s 2026 Health Insurance Overhaul Targets Costs and Premium Hikes
The German government is planning a major overhaul of the statutory health insurance system by 2026. The reforms aim to control rising healthcare costs and prevent sharp increases in premiums for patients. A group of industry experts has now put forward a series of proposals to stabilise funding and improve efficiency.
An expert commission will submit its initial recommendations by March, with a full reform plan expected by the end of 2026. Their proposals include tightening benefit rules, increasing cost-sharing, and strengthening prevention programmes. Digitalisation and AI are also being considered to cut administrative waste, while hospital financing and provider payments may be revised to reduce expenses.
Health Minister Nina Warken has warned that the changes will impact everyone. She emphasised the need for better oversight and efficiency in the system.
Industry leaders have suggested new ways to raise revenue. Andreas Gassen, chairman of the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians (KBV), proposed a €3-4 'contact fee' for each doctor visit. Gerald Gaß, CEO of the German Hospital Federation (DKG), recommended doubling the daily hospital co-payment to €20, which could bring in an extra €800 million per year. Gaß also suggested charging patients €30-40 if they use emergency services without first seeking telephone advice.
A final report with detailed measures will be presented in February 2026.
The reforms are designed to secure long-term funding for Germany’s health system. If implemented, they would introduce new fees, adjust co-payments, and push for greater efficiency. The government expects these changes to prevent future premium hikes while maintaining access to care.
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