Matthias Miersch, the faction leader for the SPD, stated that he aims to eliminate what he views as discriminatory practices between those insured under the public health system and those insured privately. Speaking to newspapers from the Funke Media Group, Miersch said that individuals with public insurance should be able to secure appointments with specialists significantly faster in the future. He observed that despite paying high, and sometimes higher, contributions than private patients, many people within the statutory health insurance system experience clear unequal treatment compared to privately insured individuals, adding that this disparity “will be addressed.”
Consequently, the federal government intends to implement the specialist guarantee outlined in the coalition contract. Although the specific design of this guarantee remains undecided, Miersch noted that various models, such as those involving changes to fee structures, could be considered. However, he emphasized a clear political stance: “Politics is done in the Bundestag, not by the treating physicians. The Bundestag sets the rules, and we will change them now.”
Miersch identified the coexistence of public and private health insurance as a core issue requiring reform, asserting, “We must make the system fairer.”
Turning to the upcoming care reform, Miersch also supported structural changes. He strongly rejected any cuts to pension contributions for family members who provide care at home. “Those who care for family members at home should not be punished for doing so,” the SPD faction leader insisted, stressing that the goal must be to strengthen home care, given that not all individuals needing care can be housed in institutional settings.
Regarding the financing of care, Miersch called for reforms. While acknowledging that Germany spends considerable amounts of money on health and care compared to other international nations, he pointed out that the desired results are not always achieved. Therefore, he argues that “structural changes are needed instead of constantly introducing new cuts.” He further stated that “the relationship between private and public care insurance must also be examined.” However, Miersch clarified that the SPD is not advocating for solely increasing the burden on privately insured individuals, but rather that a discussion is necessary about the coexistence of different systems.
