Berlin doctor's offices may close Wednesday over healthcare savings law

Numerous Berlin medical practices are expected to close on Wednesday as physicians participate in an action day protesting a government savings law that they fear will negatively impact healthcare. The Kassenärztliche Vereinigung (KV) Berlin reported that over 2,000 members have signed up for a continuing education event tied to this protest.

“

The consequences will be felt by Berliners: fewer practices, longer waiting times, restricted services.

Doctors are demonstrating against the GKV-Beitragssatzstabilisierungsgesetz, a bill designed to stabilize health insurance contribution rates. The KV Berlin warns that the proposed measures will create significant economic pressure on practices, leading to a decline in the quality of healthcare services. "The consequences will be felt by Berliners: fewer practices, longer waiting times, restricted services," the KV stated, calling the measures "pure savings at the expense of outpatient care."

“

The planned measures are 'pure savings at the expense of outpatient care.'

The Berlin Association of Pediatricians and Adolescent Physicians (BVKJ) shares these concerns, particularly regarding access to essential preventive check-ups and vaccinations. They also anticipate financial strain on practices if additional treatments are not fully reimbursed. "No pediatrician can afford to offer their services at a dumping price," said Berlin state spokesperson Jakob Maske, predicting that "routine care will be restricted and the quality of care will deteriorate."

“

No pediatrician can afford to offer their services at a dumping price.

The federal cabinet has put forward a savings package intended to reduce the burden on statutory health insurers by approximately 16.3 billion euros in 2027, aiming to offset an anticipated deficit and prevent increases in supplementary contributions. The plan includes spending controls for medical practices, hospitals, and the pharmaceutical sector, alongside measures such as higher co-payments for medications and limitations on the free insurance coverage for spouses.

“

Routine care will be restricted and the quality of care will deteriorate.