Before the first reading of the Nursing Care Ordering Act in the Bundestag this Thursday, Oliver Blatt, Chairman of the GKV-Spitzenverband (the main association of statutory health insurance funds), is demanding a fairer distribution of financial burdens. Blatt told the “Rheinische Post” (Thursday edition) that a successful and sustainable reform of care would require that the costs be distributed fairly; this, he argued, is the only way to achieve broad acceptance for the care reform and any ensuing necessary cuts.
He criticized the current situation, stating that while he generally understands that a law aimed at stabilizing pension insurance will inevitably involve costs, the distribution of these burdens must be equitable-a standard that is currently not being met.
Blatt further lamented that while individuals requiring care and those paying contributions are being heavily pressured, the federal government is still failing to meet its responsibilities. Specifically, he noted that the government is neither repaying its Corona debts nor fulfilling its obligation to finance pension contributions for caregivers. Nevertheless, he emphasized that action is urgently needed, stating that the reform of care is essential, and it is a good thing that it is happening now.
Similarly, Michaela Engelmeier, Chairman of the German Social Welfare Association (SoVD), criticized the planned reductions proposed by the Nursing Care Ordering Act. She argued that the law largely functions as a budget-cutting measure. She pointed out that higher hurdles for care assessments and the suspension of federal subsidies are negatively impacting both those in need of care and those making contributions. Engelmeier called for the newly announced Care Structure Commission to finally introduce a genuine reform, including a solidarity-based care insurance system that functions as a citizen’s insurance (where everyone contributes), a significant increase in the income assessment ceiling, and the inclusion of other types of income.
