German Parliament Votes to Eliminate Honorarium Budgets for General Practitioners
Berlin, January 30, 2025 – The German Bundestag (Parliament) has approved a measure to abolish honorarium budgets for general practitioners (GPs). The decision, which passed with a majority vote, is expected to have significant implications for the healthcare system in Germany.
Background
In Germany, GPs are typically paid through a fee-for-service model. However, since 2008, they have been subject to honorarium budgets, which cap the total amount of money they can earn per quarter from the statutory health insurance funds.
These budgets have been controversial, with GPs arguing that they restrict their income and limit their ability to provide necessary care. Patients have also expressed concerns about reduced access to healthcare services as a result of the budgets.
The Vote
After months of debate, the Bundestag voted in favor of eliminating the honorarium budgets. The motion was supported by the governing coalition of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the Green Party, and the Free Democratic Party (FDP). The opposition Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Alternative for Germany (AfD) voted against the measure.
Reactions
The decision has been met with mixed reactions. GPs have welcomed the move, arguing that it will provide them with more autonomy and flexibility in caring for their patients.
“This is a historic day for general practice in Germany,” said Dr. Ulrich Weigeldt, President of the German College of General Practitioners and Family Physicians. “For too long, we have been stifled by these budgets. Now, we can finally focus on what really matters: providing high-quality care to our patients.”
However, some health insurance companies have expressed concerns that eliminating the honorarium budgets could lead to higher healthcare costs.
“We are worried that this decision will result in a significant increase in spending on GP services,” said Dr. Thomas Ballast, CEO of the Federal Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds. “This could put a strain on the healthcare system and lead to higher premiums for patients.”
Next Steps
The law eliminating the honorarium budgets will now go to the Bundesrat (Federal Council) for approval. If approved, it is expected to take effect on July 1, 2025.
The German government has indicated that it will monitor the impact of the new law and make adjustments as necessary. The Ministry of Health has also announced plans to invest in additional training and support for GPs to ensure that they have the skills and resources to meet the needs of their patients.
Bundestag stimmt für Wegfall der Honorarbudgets für Hausärzte
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