The Diet passed legislation requiring higher co-payments for about 1,100 prescription drugs that resemble over-the-counter products, with the changes set to begin in March 2027.
The health ministry will require individuals to cover additional costs for these medications under the new rules.
The bill targets drugs similar to existing over-the-counter options as part of efforts to adjust national health insurance expenses.
Implementation is scheduled for March 2027.
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Following Chancellor Merz's announcement that the bill was practically ready, the German government finalized its health reform draft on April 28, targeting 16.3 billion euros in savings from 2027—down from an initial 19.6 billion—to address a 15.3 billion euro deficit at statutory health insurers. The Greens decry it as a burden on insured people and companies, while Health Minister Nina Warken calls it balanced. Cabinet approval is set for Wednesday.
On the coming Monday, many pharmacies across Germany will close all day to protest for higher fees. Statutory health insurers criticize the action, accusing pharmacies of false claims since fees have risen since 2013.
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From January 1, 2027, prescriptions for care and medications by sector 3 liberal doctors will no longer be reimbursed by Assurance-maladie, under the 2026 social security financing law. The measure affects about 1,000 non-conventioned doctors out of more than 200,000 in practice. The profession is voicing anger over this restriction.
Japan will introduce gasoline subsidies as national average retail prices exceed ¥190 per liter amid record highs.
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As the April 29 cabinet decision approaches, Health Minister Nina Warken and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil signal openness to adjustments in the statutory health insurance savings package, originally based on the Finance Commission's 66 proposals. Following the recent draft release and coalition disputes, associations and opposition intensify criticisms.