German Insurers Demand Action
Mixed

German Insurers Demand Action

Access to psychotherapy services in Germany is facing urgent reform as statutory health insurance providers express concern over persistently long waiting times. A significant disconnect exists between available therapy slots and the ability of patients, particularly those with severe mental health conditions, to secure appointments.

Health insurance representatives are advocating for a mandated reporting system for therapists’ free capacities and a centralized appointment allocation process. Currently, patients often endure a frustrating cycle of contacting multiple practices, leaving messages and awaiting callbacks that frequently don’t materialize.

The proposed reform, outlined in a position paper recently approved by the health insurance providers’ administrative board, seeks to establish legal requirements for therapists to report a “reasonable” number of appointments and half of their treatment slots to the statutory health insurance providers’ appointment service centers. These centers are legally obligated to facilitate psychotherapy appointments within a four-week timeframe.

However, data indicates this target isn’t consistently met. In 2023, over half (54%) of inquiries were either not addressed or weren’t scheduled within the established timeframe. The system’s ability to connect patients with ongoing treatment is also deemed unsatisfactory. The providers note that, based on approximately 40,000 practicing psychotherapists, only 365,000 appointments were offered in 2023-an average of just nine appointments per therapist annually.

The move aims to streamline access and ensure that vulnerable individuals receive timely and appropriate mental health support.