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Germany Today

German news in English

Friday, January 31, 2025

Health Insurance Costs Surge in Germany

Published: 2024-12-18

Germany's largest public health insurer, Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), is set to significantly raise its additional contribution rate from 1.2% to 2.45% in 2025. This increase will bring the total contribution rate for its 11.8 million members to 17.05% of gross income.

The rise is attributed to soaring costs in hospitals and pharmaceuticals, with TK's board blaming structural issues in the healthcare system and lack of political action.

Other insurers, like Knappschaft and AOK Nordwest, are also raising rates, reflecting a broader trend in the sector.

The average additional contribution rate for 2025, set by the Health Ministry, is 2.5%, but some insurers are exceeding this benchmark.

Members affected by these hikes have the right to switch providers under special termination rules.