Germany's bold healthcare reforms: higher fees and a sugar tax on the table

Gerald Gaß, head of the German Hospital Federation (DKG), has proposed a series of bold healthcare reforms. His suggestions include higher charges for patients and new taxes to tackle obesity. The proposals aim to cut costs and improve public health—but so far, no official decisions have been made.

In late 2025, Gaß called for doubling the daily co-payment for hospital stays from €10 to €20. This change alone could bring in an extra €800 million each year for health insurers. He also proposed charging patients between €30 and €40 for visiting emergency departments without first seeking phone advice.

Beyond cost-saving measures, Gaß pushed for broader reforms. He urged hospitals to reduce bureaucracy and focus more on prevention. To fight obesity, he suggested a tax on sugary products, often called a 'sugar tax'. His plans also included expanding sports programmes in schools and daycare centres, alongside better nutrition education.

As of March 2026, neither the federal government nor the Bundestag has responded to these ideas. Discussions continue in health policy committees, but no concrete steps have been taken yet.

Gaß's proposals would reshape how patients pay for care and how hospitals operate. If adopted, the reforms could generate significant funds while shifting focus toward prevention. For now, the debate remains open, with no timeline for a final decision.