German gynecologists warn health reforms could cut millions of appointments

Germany’s planned health reform aims to slow spending by statutory health insurers and stabilize contributions.

From next year, payments for some services in gynecology practices, including cancer screening and pregnancy check-ups, will count toward a capped practice budget instead of being paid separately.

The gynecologists’ professional association warns that up to 3.5 million short-notice appointments could disappear nationwide each year.

Its president, Markus Haist, says patients may face longer waits and practices may have less room to take on new patients.

He says practices are likely to prioritize urgent cases, including pregnant patients and people with cancer, over less urgent appointments.

The exact effect is not yet known, and the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians says the reform could mean 46 million fewer appointments across outpatient care; the national insurers’ association disputes the warnings.

The gynecologists’ association has petitioned parliament to change the reform.