German health reform law draws criticism over pharma influence and private insurer effects

The German Bundestag passed the GKV‑Beitragsstabilisierungsgesetz, a law aimed at stabilising public health‑insurance contributions. Physicians’ group MEZIS warned that the legislation largely favoured the pharmaceutical industry, noting that key measures to curb drug spending—such as eliminating the orphan‑drug privilege—were diluted and that pharma firms continue to set innovation priorities based on profit rather than medical need. The group predicts continuing rapid growth in drug‑expenditure without further counter‑measures.

IGES institute head Dr. Martin Albrecht described the reform as a necessary financial “emergency brake” but cautioned that its effects are mixed. While the law could improve access for privately insured patients by easing pressure on doctors, it may also encourage practices to prioritize private patients, potentially raising premiums for private health insurers. Albrecht warned that doctors’ dissatisfaction could lead to reduced service capacity, and that any short‑term gains for private patients might be offset by longer‑term cost pressures on the private insurance market.