Germany debates ADHD care funding as families face rising costs

Germany’s Federal Association for Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy has raised concerns over potential cuts to support for young people with ADHD. The group’s deputy chairman, Stephan Osten, has called for better financial assistance for affected families. Health Minister Nina Warken has responded by highlighting recent progress in care assessments for previously overlooked conditions. The association has urged the government to classify children and adolescents with ADHD under care level 1. Currently, some patients receive level 2 support, with only rare cases reaching level 3. Osten argues that this classification would provide much-needed financial relief.

Families often face extra costs due to the condition’s demands. Young people with ADHD typically require more physical activity, which can include expenses for sports programmes or extended care hours. Without proper funding, these costs could place a heavy burden on household budgets. Minister Warken has acknowledged the issue, noting that care assessments now include groups like ADHD patients who were previously excluded. She recognised that more children and young people with the condition are being formally recognised as needing support.

The debate centres on whether ADHD should qualify for care level 1 funding. If approved, families would receive financial help for additional activities and supervision. The government’s decision will determine how much support these young people and their households receive in the future.