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Germany's proposed nursing care reform faces criticism
Germany is considering a nursing care reform through the proposed Nursing Reorganization Act (Pflegeneuordnungsgesetz - PNOG). The German Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) states the goal is to stabilize long-term care insurance finances and improve service provision. However, the draft contains provisions for higher insurance contributions and reduced benefits for those requiring care, which has drawn criticism from professional associations such as the German Nursing Council.
The first parliamentary consultation in the Bundestag is not expected until at least autumn 2026. Under current regulations for those with care levels 1 through 5, individuals receiving home care can access a monthly relief amount of up to 131 euros to fund services like household assistance, daily support, or short-term care.
Regarding benefit amounts, following a 4.5 percent increase on January 1, 2025, levels are expected to remain unchanged through 2026. The next scheduled increase in care benefits is not slated to occur until 2028.
Entities
Bundesgesundheitsministerium (Federal Ministry of Health) · Bundestag · Felix Westphal · German Federal Ministry of Health · Nina Warken · Pflegia · Statistisches Bundesamt (Federal Statistical Office)
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] People with care levels 1 to 5 receiving home care can currently claim a relief amount of up to 131 euros per month.
- [DISPUTED] The amount of care benefits for 2026 will remain unchanged compared to 2025.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The BMG aims to stabilize long-term care insurance finances and improve care provision through the reform.
- [DISPUTED] Following a 4.5 percent increase on January 1, 2025, the next scheduled increase in care benefits is in 2028.