The Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB) Deutschland is advocating for significant reforms to Germany’s care system, including the introduction of a “Care Allowance 2.0” and a comprehensive overhaul of long-term care insurance. Uwe Martin Fichtmüller, the ASB’s national executive director, emphasized the need for direct financial support to individuals providing care for family members.
The proposed Care Allowance, modeled after Germany’s parental allowance, would provide financial assistance to caregivers who may reduce their working hours to fulfill care responsibilities. The ASB believes this support is crucial to acknowledge the economic sacrifices made by those providing care.
Furthermore, Fichtmüller called for the creation of a compulsory long-term care insurance system modeled after Germany’s health insurance system. He highlighted the financial strain on individuals facing substantial care-related expenses, often exceeding 3,000 Euros, while relying on average pensions of around 1,300 Euros for women and 1,440 Euros for men.
A proposed “base-peak swap” within the current insurance system, capping the contribution of those receiving care at 700 Euros, is also being recommended. Beyond this, the ASB suggests removing non-insurance-related expenses, such as training costs and pension points for caregivers, from the long-term care insurance system, with the state assuming responsibility for these costs. To finance these proposed changes, the ASB suggests raising the basis for contributions across all three insurance areas.
Looking back, Fichtmüller criticized the introduction of the current long-term care insurance system, arguing it undermined local infrastructure planning and effectively ended municipal support for elderly care. He advocates for reinstating the involvement of local authorities, abolishing the current mandatory contract system and prioritizing infrastructure planning to ensure care provision aligns with regional needs.
Increased collaboration with civil society organizations and a reduction in bureaucratic burdens are also key components of the ASB’s vision for a more effective and equitable care system.
