German coalition postpones vote on health‑care cost‑saving package amid public scepticism

The black‑red coalition government (CDU/CSU and SPD) is pushing a health‑care cost‑saving package aimed at stabilising statutory health‑insurance contributions and closing an €18.8 billion funding gap projected for 2027. The draft law proposes spending brakes on doctors’ practices, hospitals and the pharmaceutical sector, higher co‑payments for medicines and limits on free spouse insurance.

A YouGov poll commissioned by the German Press Agency found 61 % of respondents oppose the plan, with 32 % fully against it and only 29 % in favour. Respondents also said the burden of cuts would not be fairly shared, with 72 % believing the distribution of savings between providers and insured is unfair. Patient groups, consumer organisations and the Kassenärztliche Bundesvereinigung warned that the measures could lengthen waiting times for medical and psychotherapeutic care.

The BARMER health insurer warned that any reform of the long‑term care system must not shift costs onto care‑dependent people or their families, urging the federal and state governments to fund infrastructure and training costs.

Parliamentary proceedings have been delayed: the second and third readings are now slated for the last week before the summer recess (6‑10 July), with a public hearing involving more than 80 organisations. Coalition leaders say the vote will be completed before the break.