Overview
- TK chief Jens Baas forecasts the average additional contribution slightly above 3% at the start of 2026, with some funds likely to raise rates during the year.
- The health ministry had targeted a 2.9% average based on planned hospital savings, but the legislation is now delayed in the Vermittlungsausschuss.
- Insurers warn that even a late compromise may not affect initial 2026 rates because funds must finalize their budgets now.
- Baas points to rising hospital, drug and outpatient spending and urges system‑wide reforms to address inefficiencies.
- Political reaction includes CSU leader Markus Söder calling to avoid new burdens and to speed up digitalization, while projections caution combined health and long‑term care contributions could exceed 25% without action.