Overview

• The reduction in reimbursement rates for medications and medical consultations will be implemented through a ministerial decree.
• This decision aims to address a €1.2 billion overspend in medication expenses for 2024, attributed to an underestimation of costs related to an aging population and innovative drugs.
• The financial burden will shift partially to complementary health insurance, which may lead to higher premiums for policyholders.
• Critics, including patient advocacy groups and the pharmaceutical industry, warn that the measure could exacerbate health inequalities.
• The government seeks to achieve €5 billion in health spending cuts, including price reductions for health products and efficiency measures in hospitals and outpatient care.