What is the difference between statutory and private health insurance?
April 15, 2023 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Fred Schönecker
Dear lawyer specializing in social insurance law,
I am reaching out to you because I have some questions regarding health insurance. Currently, I am insured under statutory health insurance, but lately I have been considering whether private health insurance might be more beneficial for me. Now I am wondering what exactly the difference is between statutory and private health insurance and what this means for me personally.
Currently, I am insured with a statutory health insurance provider and I regularly pay my contributions. Overall, I am satisfied with the services, but I feel that I have limitations in certain treatments and medical services. Also, the waiting times for appointments with specialist doctors are sometimes very long, which is increasingly frustrating for me.
Therefore, I am wondering if private health insurance might offer me more advantages. Are there differences in terms of services and care between the two types of insurance? Are the contributions for private health insurance higher than those for statutory health insurance? And what criteria should I consider when deciding for or against private health insurance?
I would greatly appreciate your expertise on this matter and hope that you can assist me. Thank you in advance.
Best regards,
Tina Evers
Dear Mrs. Evers,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding health insurance. It is understandable that you are considering whether a private health insurance could be beneficial for you. In the following, I will explain the differences between statutory and private health insurance and highlight the criteria you should consider in your decision.
The main difference between statutory and private health insurance lies in the type of insurance. In statutory health insurance, employees with a gross income below a certain threshold are obligated to be insured. Contributions are based on income and are dependent on a percentage of the gross salary. The benefits of statutory health insurance are legally defined and include standard treatments and care.
On the other hand, private health insurance is an option for self-employed individuals, freelancers, and high earners. Contributions are based on age, health condition, and chosen level of coverage. Unlike statutory health insurance, private health insurances often offer more extensive benefits and individualized rates. You have access to faster doctor appointments, treatments by specialists, and can often receive services not covered by statutory health insurance.
Contributions in private health insurance may be higher than in statutory health insurance, as they are not income-dependent. However, you have the option to lower the contributions by choosing a plan with a higher deductible. Additionally, many private health insurances offer premium refunds if you do not use certain services.
When deciding for or against private health insurance, you should consider various criteria. These include not only your individual health costs but also your personal preferences and needs. Consider which benefits are important to you and how much you are willing to pay monthly for your health insurance.
I hope that these information have been helpful to you. If you have any further questions or would like a personal consultation, I am at your disposal.
Sincerely,
Fred Schönecker
Lawyer specializing in social insurance law
