German Patients Spend Billions on Questionable Medical Tests

A new report reveals that many self-paid health services lack proven benefits and may cause harm, raising concerns about transparency and patient protection.

German patients spend an estimated €2.4 billion annually on Individuelle Gesundheitsleistungen (IGeL), medical tests and procedures not covered by insurance.
A study by the Medizinischer Dienst found that many popular IGeL services, such as ovarian ultrasound and glaucoma screenings, have no proven benefit and may lead to harmful false-positive results.
The report highlights a lack of transparency, with only 25% of patients feeling adequately informed about the risks and benefits of these services.
Critics, including patient advocates and health organizations, call for stricter regulations, including mandatory information sheets and a 14-day reflection period before purchasing these services.
The AOK health insurance group suggests that the popularity of IGeL services may be contributing to longer wait times for standard medical care.