The German Health Finance Commission has released its first report on stabilising the contribution rates for statutory health insurance (GKV). Presented in Berlin on Monday, the report contains 66 recommendations that are set to take effect from 2027 in order to strengthen the financial position of the GKV.
The recommendations are grouped into three categories:
” “Positive‑impact savings or revenue” – Measures that improve the quality of care. This includes, for example, the phased introduction of a mandatory second‑opinion procedure for procedures that are considered “sensitive” in terms of cost.
” “Neutral‑impact measures” – Actions that neither improve nor damage care quality. One such recommendation is the removal of the compensation rules for TSVG (Transplantation and Special Medical Devices) constellations. The category also contains proposals such as the abolition of free partner insurance, higher taxes on tobacco and alcohol, and a tiered tax on sugar‑sweetened beverages.
” “Potentially negative‑impact savings or revenue” – Options that carry uncertainty or possible adverse effects on quality, access or equity. An example is the proposal to discontinue the full GKV financing of pilot studies.
Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) warned that without decisive action a historic financial shortfall of more than €40 billion could threaten health insurers in 2030. The commission has identified central cost drivers and structural challenges and outlined measures to stabilise contribution rates.
The commission estimated the current GKV funding gap at over €15 billion in 2027, projected to climb above €40 billion by 2030. Minister Warken said the ministry would promptly review the report’s proposals and initiate legislation to stabilise the GKV financial situation from 2027 onward.
