German Health Insurance Contributions to Hit Record High in 2025

The Schätzerkreis forecasts a significant increase in health insurance premiums, prompting calls for reform amid financial strain.

The Schätzerkreis, an advisory body, has recommended raising the average health insurance contribution by 0.8 percentage points to 17.1% of income.
Health Minister Karl Lauterbach attributes the rise to inefficiencies and high costs in the healthcare system, advocating for a major hospital reform.
The increase is expected to disproportionately affect low and middle-income earners, with potential monthly costs rising by up to 18 euros per employee.
Critics, including DAK's Andreas Storm, blame the government for not fulfilling financial commitments, exacerbating the financial burden on insurers.
Economists warn that higher contributions could negatively impact Germany's economic competitiveness by increasing labor costs.