German health reforms spark backlash over therapist fee cuts and higher patient charges

The Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) has not contested the Extended Evaluation Committee's (EBA) decision to lower psychotherapeutic fees by 4.5 %. The German Chamber of Psychotherapists (BPtK) – led by President Dr. Andrea Benecke – warns that the calculation model, originally intended to guarantee a minimum fee, is being misused and could lead to further reductions. The BPtK is pursuing legal action, and a lawsuit filed by the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians is pending before the Berlin‑Brandenburg Social Court, seeking a suspension of the fee cut.

At the same time, the Bundestag's Health Committee will hold a public hearing on June 22 on the GKV Contribution Stabilisation Act (BStabG). The draft law, approved by the cabinet on 29 April, aims to close a projected funding gap of €15.3 billion in 2027 that could rise to €40 billion by 2030. Core measures slated to take effect on 1 January 2027 include a 50 % increase in co‑payments for medicines and therapies, a reduction of dental prosthesis subsidies, the removal of homeopathy and anthroposophy from statutory benefits, and tighter deadlines for rehabilitation applications. Remaining points under negotiation involve a surcharge for single‑earner couples, coverage of cannabis flowers, and financing for basic‑income recipients.