Oliver Blatt, head of the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds (GKV-Spitzenverband), has cautioned about potential increases in contributions to Germany’s statutory health insurance system. According to statements made to the “Handelsblatt”, the additional contribution rate could exceed three percent by early 2026 without substantial reforms. Currently, the average additional contribution stands at 2.9 percent, a figure determined independently by individual health insurance funds. “In the end, insured individuals will pay more without receiving more in return” Blatt stated.
The general contribution rate is currently 14.6 percent, shared equally between employers and employees. Blatt emphasized the need to address escalating costs, warning that continued increases could impact Germany’s economic competitiveness. “If no action is taken, contributions will continue to rise and competitiveness will suffer. That’s precisely why we need to reverse this trend: less cost escalation, more quality” he explained.
Responding to concerns of hidden benefit reductions through mechanisms like co-payments or extended approval processes, Blatt firmly denied any such strategy. “There is no strategy to reduce benefits through the back door”. He also voiced opposition to tiered contributions based on lifestyle factors, arguing, “For instance, the numerous meniscus surgeries in football cost more than a rare paragliding accident. It’s therefore better to remain in solidarity and work with positive incentives rather than penalties.
Blatt also dismissed proposals for contribution refunds based on quarterly healthcare utilization, stating they would contradict the solidarity principle and unfairly disadvantage individuals with chronic or serious illnesses requiring frequent treatment, regardless of lifestyle choices. He flagged the nursing care insurance system as also facing significant pressures, anticipating a shortfall of 1.1 billion euros in 2026 despite a 500 million euro federal loan in 2025. “The situation is serious, but the system isn’t collapsing” Blatt concluded.
