Germany's long-term care system faces a €7.5 billion funding crisis in 2023

Germany’s statutory long-term care insurance system faces a bigger financial gap this year than first thought. Federal Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) shared updated figures with state health ministers during a recent meeting.

The revised numbers show a deeper shortfall, raising concerns about the system’s stability in the coming years. Earlier estimates suggested a €6 billion gap between revenue and spending for 2023. The new calculations, however, reveal the deficit has grown to over €7.5 billion.

Looking ahead, the situation is expected to worsen. By 2028, projections indicate a shortfall exceeding €15 billion if no changes are made.

Warken presented the updated data to her counterparts from the federal states. The figures highlight the growing pressure on Germany’s long-term care funding as costs rise and revenues fail to keep pace. The latest projections confirm a widening financial gap in the long-term care system. Without adjustments, the deficit will more than double within five years. State and federal officials must now consider how to address the funding challenge in the years ahead.