Indeed, in an ageing society this presumably accords with the population’s preferences. However, the structure of the current system does not enable it to meet the challenges it faces. The measures agreed by the Bundestag and Bundesrat for the statutory health insurance funds are to be welcomed in that they may lead to a lowering of the contribution rates.
At the same time, the increased participation by the patients in individual health costs should contribute to a more efficient use of resources. Last but not least, non-wage labour costs will be reduced. However, overall, these measures by no means obviate the need for further reforms.