SBK boss Demmler on nursing care insurance: I hope for quick emergency aid

Dr. Demmler, rising needs and declining revenues: Is social long-term care insurance at a crossroads?

Definitely. However, we not only urgently need solutions for affordable and needs-based long-term care insurance, but we should also start much earlier. Why, for example, doesn't prevention play a greater role, even for people without a long-term care level?

The need for care can often be anticipated relatively early, even before a care level is actually established. If we can ensure that people only become dependent on care much later, this will protect the nursing care funds and the resources of existing caregivers – while simultaneously improving the quality of life for those affected!

The Federal Government's Commissioner for Nursing, Katrin Staffler, complains that nursing care insurance is outdated in many areas, too complicated, and often inefficient. Is this a justified criticism?

Ms. Staffler is right. On the one hand, the strict demarcation between health and long-term care insurance makes little sense in an increasingly aging society. The two insurance systems must be able to work more closely together, as the boundaries are becoming increasingly fluid.

We also need new benefits and contract law for social long-term care insurance – without a rigid separation between outpatient and inpatient care. This often simply doesn't reflect the everyday lives of those in need of care.

Family caregivers together form the nation's largest "care service." More support is being called for. What can family doctors do in this regard?

Without family caregivers, the care system would be under even greater strain. Nevertheless, they are not ideally placed to do so: In addition to the increased risk of poverty, caring for family members can also pose a significant health burden.

Therefore, we must facilitate time off through short-term and respite care and invest in preventative care for family caregivers. Family doctors can focus on family caregivers in this regard.

What do you expect from the new Minister of Health, Nina Warken, regarding long-term care insurance?

First, I hope for rapid emergency aid by transferring the over five billion euros still outstanding from the coronavirus pandemic. Then it's all about real change, not patchwork. Long-term care insurance, as well as the healthcare system in general, need a clear vision and concrete reforms. We must not let another legislative period go to waste.

Dr. Demmler, thank you for the interview!