Germans reject healthcare cost cuts in new survey findings
A recent survey has revealed that Germans are largely unwilling to accept cost-cutting measures in healthcare. The poll, carried out by Insa for Bild am Sonntag, asked 1,003 people about potential changes to statutory health insurance. Most respondents rejected proposals that would increase their personal expenses or reduce benefits.
The survey took place between March 26 and 27, 2026, just before the Expert Commission on Health Financingâappointed by Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU)âwas due to present its initial recommendations. The commission had been set up in September 2025 to address expected deficits of âŹ12-14 billion in 2027, but its specific proposals were not yet public when the poll was conducted.
Only a small fraction of participants showed openness to higher costs. Just 8% were willing to pay more in insurance contributions, while 11% could accept increased out-of-pocket expenses for medications and hospital stays. Another 14% supported reintroducing co-payment fees for doctor visits. Reductions in services also met strong resistance. A mere 21% would tolerate cuts to the range of benefits covered by statutory health insurance. Meanwhile, 39% outright opposed any reduction in healthcare benefits. On structural changes, 31% could accept removing the need for referrals to see specialists. The most divisive issue was ending free co-insurance for spouses. While 28% backed the idea, a clear majorityâ57%ârejected it.
The findings suggest most Germans prefer keeping current healthcare benefits intact, even if it means avoiding higher personal costs. The Expert Commission's upcoming proposals will now face public scepticism, particularly over measures that shift financial burdens onto patients. The survey results were published as the commission prepared to outline its plans for stabilising contribution rates.
