As we approach 2025, significant shifts in Germany’s healthcare system will transform how residents access medical services. These changes span various aspects of healthcare, from digital recordkeeping to insurance adjustments and hospital reforms. Here are the key updates that everyone in Germany should be aware of as we move into the new year.
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Electronic Patient File (EPA) Becomes Standard
Starting January 15, 2025, all individuals with statutory health insurance in Germany will have access to an electronic patient file (EPA). This digital record will house essential health information such as medication details, lab results, vaccination records, and dental treatment plans. This move towards digital health aims to make healthcare more efficient and safer for both patients and healthcare providers. However, if anyone prefers not to have their information stored digitally, they can opt-out by contacting their health insurer. Those with private insurance will need to inquire with their provider for details on how they can access their electronic patient file.
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Ban on Amalgam Fillings
Another major change is that amalgam fillings will be banned in Germany as of January 2025 due to environmental concerns. These fillings contain mercury, which can harm the environment. Although there are no known direct health dangers to patients, the EU’s campaign for this restriction will encourage the use of other materials, such as glass ionomer cement. For those relying on statutory health insurance, this change won’t affect the cost of fillings, as these new materials will be covered in place of amalgam.
Additional Read: Analyzing the Nursing Shortage in 2024
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Expanded Child Sick Days
Germany will continue its support for working families in 2025 with an extended entitlement to child sick days. Parents with statutory health insurance will be eligible for 15 days of paid sick leave per year per child, while single parents can take up to 30 days. For families with multiple children, the number of sick days increases, with single parents able to take up to 70 days of paid leave. This extension builds on the measures introduced during the Covid pandemic to help working parents manage family illness.
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Insurance Contribution Changes
Starting in 2025, both statutory and private health insurance premiums will rise. Statutory health insurance providers are permitted to increase their additional contribution rate by up to 2.5%. Additionally, the long-term care insurance contribution will increase by 0.2 percentage points. For those without children, the rate will go up to 4.2%, while families with children will pay less. Private health insurance providers will also raise premiums, and those affected will receive direct notifications from their insurers.
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Germany’s Hospital Reform
In a sweeping overhaul, Germany will introduce the Hospital Care Improvement Act (KHVVG) on January 1, 2025. This reform aims to alleviate financial pressure on the nation’s hospitals and standardize care quality. Hospitals will receive fixed payments based on their service offerings, staff numbers, and medical technology. Specialized services will be paid at a higher rate, and hospitals will be required to meet national quality standards to continue offering certain services. The reform is expected to be rolled out gradually over the next few years.
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E-Prescriptions for Privately Insured People
The introduction of electronic prescriptions (e-Rezepte) for privately insured individuals will be implemented across Germany starting in 2025. Like the EPA, e-prescriptions aim to streamline the healthcare process, allowing prescriptions to be managed and transmitted digitally through an app. Although the digital system is not mandatory, it will help make the process faster and more convenient for patients and pharmacies alike.
At Dynamic Healthstaff, we understand the evolving landscape of healthcare in Germany and how these changes might affect both patients and healthcare professionals. We provide expert staffing solutions to ensure that hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities are fully supported as they navigate these shifts.
Whether you need qualified healthcare professionals to manage new digital systems or support in implementing changes to insurance processes, we’re here to help. Our experienced staff can seamlessly integrate into your operations, ensuring that your healthcare services continue to thrive in 2025 and beyond. If interested, contact us today at enquiry@dynamichealthstaff.com or +919810017608 for more information!
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