CSU leader Markus Söder has issued a firm rejection of plans to abolish free health insurance co-coverage for spouses. "Abolishing free co-insurance for spouses would be out of the question for the CSU", Söder told the "Augsburger Allgemeinen" on Wednesday. "That would be a completely wrong signal to the people in our country", he warned. "It is completely absurd to put additional burdens on our families in these challenging times."
The Bavarian Minister President called for the planned reform of statutory health insurance (GKV) to concentrate on the sharp rise in health spending. "Instead of generating minimal additional revenue at the expense of families, the insurance funds' expenditures must come down", Söder stressed. "What we need is a comprehensive reform package that does not unilaterally disadvantage individual groups in our society."
Previously, the "Handelsblatt" had reported, citing coalition circles, on alleged considerations within the federal government to abolish free co-insurance for non-working spouses. According to these reports, those who were previously insured free of charge would in future pay a minimum rate of approximately 225 euros per month. Exceptions would reportedly apply to people with children under six years of age or those caring for relatives requiring care.
Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) declined to comment on the reports. Instead, she referred to the expert commission she had appointed, which is to present proposals for stabilizing health insurance contributions. This is scheduled for Monday.
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