Germany is poised for potential improvements in primary care access following an agreement between the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds (GKV-Spitzenverband) and the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians (KBV) regarding criteria for remuneration packages. Starting in 2026, patients may benefit from a broader range of services offered by general practice physicians.
Stefanie Stoff-Ahnis, Deputy CEO of the GKV-Spitzenverband, described the agreement as an initial step towards a more patient-centered approach. She highlighted plans to potentially expand services including increased availability of appointments during evenings and weekends, a greater number of practices offering home visits and improved care for residents of nursing homes – representing just a portion of the ten specific objectives.
The core of the change lies in linking financial incentives to the provision of defined services, encouraging practices to more closely respond to patient needs. The current “structural lump sum” which constitutes approximately one-third-around three billion euros-of total remuneration for general practices, has historically been paid simply for participation in patient care. As of January 1st, this will be replaced by a “retention lump sum” tied to the delivery of specific services.
Ten criteria have been established by the GKV-Spitzenverband and KBV to determine eligibility for this new lump sum. These include the provision of appointments outside standard business hours, regular visits to care facilities, telemedicine consultations and a minimum number of vaccinations and ultrasound examinations.
The changes stem from a mandate issued by former Federal Minister of Health Karl Lauterbach, with the intention of strengthening primary care throughout Germany. The relevant legislation, known as the Healthcare Strengthening Act, was approved by the previous parliament in January of last year. While the framework is in place, it remains to be seen how quickly and comprehensively practices will adapt their services to meet the new requirements and how tangible the benefits will be for patients.
