Health
"Consumers need independent, easily comprehensible information particularly on the sensitive health market."(Federal Minister Ilse Aigner)
The health reforms have considerably increased the choices for consumers. The uniform contribution rate was indeed introduced on 1 January 2009 for all people with statutory health insurance but there are differences between the health funds when it comes to customer service, supplementary benefits and tariff options. Since the beginning of 2009 there have been numerous changes for people with private health insurance, too. There are now offerings in terms of outpatient and inpatient care that reflect the different needs of senior citizens.
The wealth of changes and different options do indeed give consumers more decision-making scope but also more responsibility. The health market does have one special feature: consumers must often take decisions in delicate situations, for instance when visiting a doctor, or under time pressure when for example a family member suddenly requires care. This is where the BMELV advocates transparency on the health and care market and supports projects that provide guidance for the people concerned and their family members.
