Overview

• Health Minister Karl Lauterbach denies insolvency threats but acknowledges the care insurance system's financial pressure due to an aging population and rising costs.
• The coalition government is divided on reform strategies, with SPD and Greens favoring increased tax support, while FDP advocates for more private sector involvement.
• Opposition parties criticize the government's inaction, warning of significant contribution increases and potential system collapse by early 2025 without intervention.
• Experts have long flagged the unsustainable trajectory of the care insurance system, yet comprehensive reform remains elusive amid political gridlock.
• Lauterbach plans to present new reform proposals soon, but consensus among coalition partners appears challenging as financial pressures mount.