Majority of Second Individuals Express Dissatisfaction with the Healthcare System, Says Poll - Majority Express Dissatisfaction Towards Healthcare System in Survey
The German healthcare system is facing increasing criticism, according to a survey by Forsa, commissioned by Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) [1][2]. The survey, conducted in July 2023, reveals that nearly half of Germans (47%) express dissatisfaction with the healthcare system, with many feeling inadequately considered despite increasing costs.
The primary causes of this dissatisfaction include long waiting times for doctor appointments, a feeling that rising insurance contributions do not correspond to adequate care, and financial pressures on health insurers forecasting an €8 billion shortfall by 2026 [1][2][3].
The effects of this dissatisfaction are far-reaching. Public frustration is growing, trust in the healthcare system is eroding, and health insurers are facing significant financial challenges. This situation gives politics time for a fundamental reform of the German healthcare system [1].
Jens Baas, Chairman of TK, emphasizes the need to reconsider both funding models and system efficiency to reduce waiting times and improve service delivery [1]. Across Europe, there is also interest in leveraging digital technology and AI to improve healthcare access and personalization, although issues of data protection and inclusivity remain challenges [3].
The survey findings suggest a need for improvement in the German healthcare system to address the concerns of the majority of the population. In January, only 30% of people said they were less or not satisfied with the German healthcare system, compared to 47% in July 2023 [2].
TK suggests that savings could provide a temporary solution while a long-term reform is being developed. The CEO of TK, Jens Baas, commented that more people feel they are not getting adequate value for their continually rising contributions [1]. However, only 12% of people surveyed were very or completely satisfied with the German healthcare system [2].
The survey by Forsa is the primary source for the dissatisfaction data, while the STADA Health Report and European-wide analyses provide context on systemic challenges and innovation opportunities in healthcare satisfaction [1][3].
[1] Forsa Survey (July 2023) - https://www.forsa.de/de/presse/pressemitteilungen/2023/juli/deutsche-gesundheitsversicherung-zur-kritik-expertise-forsa [2] Forsa Survey (January 2023) - https://www.forsa.de/de/presse/pressemitteilungen/2023/januar/deutsche-gesundheitsversicherung-zur-zufriedenheit-expertise-forsa [3] STADA Health Report - https://www.stada.com/content/dam/stada/de/downloads/firmeninformationen/report/stada-health-report-2022.pdf [4] European-wide analyses - https://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/health-systems/health-policy/health-system-performance-assessment
In the context of growing dissatisfaction with the German healthcare system, it might be beneficial to consider integrating community policies that prioritize mental health, health-and-wellness, and vocational training to address the concerns of the population. Amidst this, the application of science and digital technology, such as AI, could potentially improve accessibility and personalization in healthcare, while addressing concerns of data protection and inclusivity.
