Federal government wants to stabilize additional contribution – citizens' trust in health policy is low
23.10.2025 17:39
With a savings package worth around two billion euros, Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) aims to stabilize the financing of statutory health insurance funds. The measures are intended to limit the average additional contribution, as determined by the expert group, from the current 2.5 percent to 2.9 percent next year. However, only 19 percent of Germans fundamentally trust politicians to find solutions to the current problems in the healthcare system.
In order to keep contributions constant, 61 percent of respondents support the merger of statutory and private health insurance, as well as subsidies to create a so-called citizens' insurance scheme. These are the results of the study "GKV-Wechselmonitor 2025" commissioned by Horváth.
Despite the announced/foreseeable premium increases (next year), the willingness to switch health insurance providers among those with statutory insurance has declined. Currently, only 37 percent are considering a switch, compared to 43 percent a year ago. At 54 percent, families are currently the most willing to switch.
Half of the insured have never changed health insurance providers
In reality, however, only a small percentage of people actually switch health insurance providers. In the past twelve months, the number was ten percent. In contrast, one in two insured individuals has never done so. Satisfaction with their own insurer has so far prevented 62 percent from doing so. Another reason for loyalty, 24 percent cite not having found an attractive alternative. 22 percent also consider the process too complicated.
„"Given the strained economic situation, Germans are currently paying more attention to their spending, but health insurance contributions are rarely the focus," says Simon Arne Manner, partner at Horváth. "Increases often go unnoticed, especially since employers cover part of the costs. Many insured individuals are also unaware of how easy it is to switch health insurance providers. All of this leads to the fact that intentions to switch often fizzle out."“
Changing health insurance providers primarily for savings reasons
Nevertheless, the prospect of lower premiums remains the primary motivation for switching for 68 percent of respondents. Of those who actually switched insurers in the past twelve months, half (52 percent) did so for financial reasons. "While a widespread loss of members is not to be expected, health insurance companies should nevertheless proactively address the loyalty of their insured," says Manner. "This could be particularly critical for insurers that use additional premiums to cover their administrative costs."„
„"It will be a challenge for health insurance companies to bring spending within the ranges set by the government in the short term," says Manner. "At the same time, there is a risk that, with a focus on curbing the development of material costs, investments in digitalization cannot proceed as planned."“
Clear majority expects higher additional contributions
Despite the federal government's efforts to maintain a stable supplementary contribution, 71 percent of respondents expect higher premiums. A tipping point would be reached at a price adjustment of €17.50 per month. Above this amount, more insured people would seek a switch than accept the higher premium.
About the study
For the study "GKV-Wechselmonitor 2025," the market research institute YouGov, on behalf of Horváth, conducted an online survey of 1,406 people with statutory health insurance residing in Germany. The results are representative of gender, age, and region.
About Horváth
Horváth is an international, independent management consultancy with 1,400 employees at locations in Europe, the USA, and other global markets. As a top management consultancy for transformation, performance management, and digitalization, we guide companies and public organizations to sustainable success and long-term, high value creation. Horváth distinguishes itself through sound, innovative consulting approaches and solutions – based on our roots and values, shaped by our founder, Professor Péter Horváth. Clients, from boardroom to specialist level, particularly value our extensive technical expertise, implementation strength, and trusting collaboration. Horváth has received numerous awards for the high level of satisfaction with the project results achieved.