Germany’s statutory health and nursing care insurance could become noticeably more expensive for many families. According to a “Handelsblatt” report citing coalition sources, the government intends to end the free joint coverage that couples currently receive under the health insurance system. Those who have been covered at no cost would, under the proposed plan, be required to pay a minimum contribution of roughly €225 per month.
The elimination of fee‑free spouse coverage is described by the federal government as a core element of broader health and care reforms. The measure is meant to reduce the chronic deficit of health insurers and to create a stronger incentive for people to accept paid employment. Under the draft, spouses would pay a monthly premium of €200 to the health insurance and €25 to the nursing care insurance. Exemptions would apply for those with children under six or for family members who care for disabled relatives.
At the end of March, an expert commission appointed by Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) is set to present proposals for stabilising insurer contributions. Meanwhile, other reform talks are already underway, and the announcement of the spousal coverage change is already circulating within coalition circles. A final decision has not yet been made; the commission’s report will be awaited before a conclusive step is taken.
If co‑insured spouses are required to pay the minimum contribution, the impact on insurers could amount to a modest, single‑digit‑millions‑of‑euros relief per year. Roughly 16 million people in Germany are currently covered free of charge – the bulk of whom are children – and the proposal promises no change for those beneficiaries.
