Germany's therapeutic treatment costs hit record highs by 2025

Germany’s spending on therapeutic treatments has risen sharply in recent years. The introduction of blanket prescriptions in 2024 played a major role in this increase. By the end of 2025, costs had reached record levels for statutory health insurers. In 2024, statutory health insurers spent nearly €13.3 billion on therapeutic treatments. This figure jumped to €14.7 billion by the end of 2025. The surge followed policy changes, including the wider use of blanket prescriptions.

Physiotherapy made up the largest share of expenses, accounting for 69.7 percent of all costs. Specialised care for severe or chronic conditions also contributed significantly. In 2025, this area alone cost €2.6 billion—half of AOK’s total spending on therapeutic treatments. The number of long-term therapy prescriptions has also grown rapidly. Since 2017, these prescriptions have nearly quintupled, reflecting a broader trend in treatment demand.

The rise in spending highlights the growing reliance on therapeutic treatments in Germany. With physiotherapy and chronic care driving costs, insurers face higher financial pressures. The trend suggests long-term changes in how medical services are delivered and funded.