The Association of German Cities and Municipalities (DStGB) has criticized the draft care reform proposed by Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU). André Berghegger, the DStGB’s Chief of Operations, commented to the “Rheinischen Post” (Friday edition) that while the draft contains good ideas, it falls short of municipal expectations, particularly regarding financing.
Berghegger cited a positive aspect of the proposal: strengthening municipal care planning by allowing health and long-term care insurance funds to provide data easily. He also welcomed the approach that future care levels should focus more precisely on prevention.
However, Berghegger raised serious concerns about rising costs for care assistance. The draft estimates an expenditure increase of one billion euros in the coming year alone. He noted that municipal budgets are already under massive pressure and offer no room for expansion.
Furthermore, the decision to revoke the rules, introduced by the family relief act, which limited how much relatives’ income could be credited, validates the DStGB’s own long-standing demand. Consequently, Berghegger stated that the organization now expects the federal government to promptly present a corresponding new draft.
