Germany’s healthcare crisis demands urgent reform, BKK Federal Association warns
Germany’s BKK Federal Association has called for a major overhaul of outpatient care. In a 2025 position paper, the group described the current system as inefficient despite high spending and a dense network of doctors. A key proposal involves a structured, digital-first assessment for every new patient to prioritise care based on urgency.
The BKK argues that Germany’s healthcare system, though well-funded, underperforms compared to other nations. While per-person spending remains high, key performance metrics lag behind international standards. To address this, the association wants a fundamental shift in how care is organised and paid for.
A new compensation model would link payments to efficiency, treatment quality, and patient outcomes. Instead of fixed fees, a modular system would combine per-patient payments with flat rates for specialised treatment pathways. Validated tools would measure quality indicators, allowing flexible combinations of different care components.
The proposal also pushes for team-based primary care, involving doctors, physician assistants, advanced nurses, psychologists, and social workers. Reducing unnecessary mandatory consultations would free up resources for complex cases, prevention, and faster appointments. Electronic patient records (EPR) and better interprofessional communication would help identify and support high-risk patients.
To prevent inequalities, the BKK suggests a legal ban on offering statutory health benefits with preferential appointment times or as out-of-pocket services only.
The reforms aim to streamline access, improve outcomes, and ensure fairer care distribution. If implemented, the changes would mark a significant shift in how outpatient services are structured and funded. The focus remains on urgency-based triage, digital integration, and team-based treatment.
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