The Confederation of German Employers’ Associations (BDA) has proposed reintroducing a fee of three to four euros for each doctor visit. The aim is to reduce excessive consultations and stabilize healthcare costs.
The proposal has been met with strong opposition from unions, patient advocacy groups, and physicians, who argue that it is socially unjust and could restrict access to healthcare for disadvantaged groups.
Critics also point out that a similar fee system was in place between 2004 and 2012 but failed to deliver the intended results. They stress that there is no solid evidence that such a measure would achieve the desired economic outcomes.
Sources - Agencies