German Health Minister Carsten Linnemann has stated that reductions in long-term care insurance benefits may be necessary due to rising costs and structural financial challenges.

German Health Minister Carsten Linnemann (CDU) has indicated that cuts to long-term care insurance benefits cannot be ruled out as the system faces significant financial strain. Speaking to the Handelsblatt, Linnemann explained that approximately ten percent in savings would be required to address the rising costs. He acknowledged that he could not guarantee the absence of benefit reductions in certain areas, citing the structural funding issues within the care insurance system.

The number of individuals requiring care has tripled over the past two decades, increasing from two million to over six million. Without reforms, the care insurance system is projected to face a deficit of approximately eight billion euros by 2027. Linnemann emphasized the need to target assistance more effectively, ensuring that support reaches those who genuinely need it. He also expressed a commitment to enabling care recipients to remain at home for as long as possible. However, he rejected the idea of mandatory private care insurance, favoring tax incentives for private savings instead.

The Deutsche Stiftung Patientenschutz has voiced strong criticism of potential cuts, warning of severe consequences for the five million individuals receiving care at home and their families. Eugen Brysch, the foundation’s chairman, stated that such measures could push caregivers to the brink, potentially forcing hundreds of thousands into care homes that already face shortages in both space and staff. Meanwhile, the government’s Care Structure Commission has begun its work this week, tasked with developing long-term financing solutions for the care insurance system. Their recommendations, which will also address preventive measures to delay or reduce care dependency, are expected by the end of January.