Health Policy
Nursing home costs rise above 3200 euros monthly
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Monthly out-of-pocket costs for nursing homes in Germany have risen further at the start of 2026. According to AOK and vdek data, the national average in the first year is around 3200 to 3245 euros. Insurers' associations are calling for reform to limit the burden.
The CDU economic council has proposed tax cuts and reductions in social benefits in its "Agenda for Workers," including removing dental coverage from health insurance. The plans face sharp criticism from politicians and associations, who label them unsocial and harmful to creating a two-tier medical system. Even within the CDU, there is discontent.
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In an RND interview, Federal Medical Association President Klaus Reinhardt discusses Germany's high doctor visit rates, which he does not attribute solely to patient behavior. He warns against planned prescribing rights for pharmacists and advocates for a sugar tax as well as smartphone bans in schools. Additionally, he supports a new regulation of assisted suicide with strict protective measures.
The U.S. Senate has confirmed Robert Califf to lead the Food and Drug Administration amid ongoing public health challenges. Califf, a cardiologist with prior FDA experience, was approved in a bipartisan vote. This move aims to stabilize the agency during debates over drug approvals and regulations.
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The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has finalized a rule to reduce administrative burdens from prior authorization requirements in Medicare Advantage plans. The policy aims to speed up approvals and improve patient access to care. It will affect millions of enrollees starting in 2026.