Daniel Steiner, the CEO of Roche Pharma, argues that the planned healthcare reform spearheaded by Federal Health Minister Nina Warkenhainer (CDU) focuses on the wrong issues. Speaking to the “Funke” media group, Steiner stated that “the real problem lies in inefficient structures where progress leaks away and money is wasted”. He calculated that if modern diagnostic tests, digital systems, and innovative pharmaceuticals were consistently implemented, the statutory health care insurers could achieve efficiency savings exceeding 20 billion euros annually-a sum comparable to the savings Warkenhainer aims for with her reform.
As also being the vice president of the Association of Research Pharmaceuticals, Steiner criticized Warkenhainer’s proposal as too narrow. He emphasized that the reform lacks a comprehensive or “holistic view” given the highly fragmented nature of German healthcare, which is governed by 93 statutory health insurers and 17 regional jurisdictions analogous to the federal states.
Furthermore, Steiner criticized the federal government for failing to keep its promises. He pointed out that only a few months ago, discussions were held in the Chancellery about how the pharmaceutical industry could contribute to reviving the economy from the chronic downturn, stressing that “planning certainty” was required, rather than subsidies. Accusing politicians of hypocrisy, Steiner noted, “Instead of establishing the agreed-upon trajectory for an internationally competitive location, we are now discussing new burdens. Political declarations and actions can no longer be separated in Germany”.
The Roche Pharma chief warned that the entire industry might be forced to leave Germany if policy shifts continue. He cautioned that without a coherent industrial strategy, the country risks losing this crucial sector to other nations, following the pattern of other vital industries already departing. He concluded sternly that if the plans are implemented as they stand, it would be equivalent to a gradual deindustrialization.
