Economist Bernd Raffelhüschen proposes a controversial €2,000 annual deductible for German statutory health insurance, with higher rates for childless individuals. We analyze his plan to control costs and its implications for generational fairness.…

A new study warns that Germany's statutory long-term care insurance contributions could more than triple by 2040. We analyze the projected cost explosion, the debate over private vs. public solutions, and what it means for your future financial planning.…

Did you know that out-of-pocket medical costs not covered by your health insurance may be tax-deductible? Learn from the experts at VLH (Vereinigte Lohnsteuerhilfe e.V.) what qualifies as an 'extraordinary burden,' how to claim these deductions on your tax return, and strategies to maximize your savings on healthcare expenses.…

A proposed German health reform would raise the income ceiling for health insurance contributions, generating €14.3 billion in new costs. Employers warn this will disproportionately burden sectors already facing skilled labor shortages. Learn about the debate and its economic impact.…

Discover which private health insurance companies received the highest ratings in the latest Morgen & Morgen analysis. Learn about the key performance indicators—costs, solidity, and growth—that define a top-tier insurer and see which six providers earned a prestigious 'five-star' excellence rating this year.…

Inflation and economic uncertainty have made customers more willing to switch their health insurance providers. Discover data-driven strategies from Simon-Kucher's latest study on how insurers can counteract cancellations, implement effective price management, and even increase customer willingness to pay through targeted value-added services and smart product optimization.…

Navigating hearing aid coverage in Germany? This guide explains the key differences between statutory (GKV) and private (PKV) health insurance benefits, including fixed allowances, out-of-pocket costs, and how to maximize your subsidy. Learn what to expect from your insurance plan.…

Germany's proposed long-term care insurance reform, led by Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, introduces a significant change: only parents with children under 25 will benefit from lower contribution rates. This article explains the reform's goals, the new age-based restriction, and its impact on retirees, drawing parallels to challenges in US long-term care and Medicare funding.…

Germany's Federal Statistical Office projects a surge in long-term care needs, with up to 6.8 million people requiring care by 2055. We analyze the data, the financial strain on public insurance, and why private planning is now essential.…

Facing demographic pressures, Germany's Union parties propose capping total social security contributions at 40% of income and promoting private long-term care insurance. We analyze the plan's impact on workers, employers, and the future of healthcare funding.…

Germany's healthcare expenditures soared to €474.1 billion in 2021, a record €5,699 per person. Driven by pandemic costs and rising long-term care, spending is estimated to reach nearly €500 billion in 2022. We break down the figures and their implications.…

Business groups warn that proposals to raise the GKV income contribution cap are a 'stealth introduction' of a single-payer 'Citizens' Insurance.' We analyze the financial, legal, and market implications of this heated healthcare reform debate.…

A German court ruled a private health insurer's (PKV) premium demands were harassment after a client switched coverage. Learn about your rights during policy cancellation, the insurer's notification duties, and how to protect yourself from unfair claims.…

A leading public health insurance (GKV) fund chief proposes drastic cuts, including removing all dental care and homeopathy from coverage. We analyze the potential impact on patients, costs, and the growing need for private supplemental insurance.…

SPD and Greens propose raising the income contribution cap (Beitragsbemessungsgrenze) for public health insurance (GKV). We analyze this potential reform, its financial implications for high earners, and how it could affect the choice between GKV and private health insurance (PKV).…

How did leading private health insurance (PKV) companies perform during the economic challenges of 2022? We analyze premium trends, financial resilience, and market dynamics for Germany's top PKV providers, offering crucial insights for your insurance planning.…

Is private health insurance (PKV) unaffordable as you age? We tackle this and other widespread misconceptions head-on. Using survey data and official statistics, we debunk the top 5 prejudices against German private health insurance, providing clarity for informed decision-making on your healthcare coverage.…

A political proposal to raise Germany's public health insurance (GKV) income ceiling could generate billions in revenue but increase labor costs. Explore the study's findings, the debate over sustainable funding, and the impact on high earners and employers.…

A 2023 trend report reveals a shift in private health insurance (PKV) purchasing behavior. New customers are older and increasingly prioritize low premiums over comprehensive benefits. Discover the most popular coverage options and the potential financial risks of underinsurance.…

German private health insurers (PKV) are achieving record premium income, but face a shrinking customer base and the need to attract new demographics. Explore the 2023 market outlook, financial stability, and what rising interest rates mean for future premiums.…