The mandatory healthcare deductible (eigen risico) in the Netherlands will rise with inflation to €400 next year. Consequently, the Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Sport announced the change in its annual budget. Meanwhile, average monthly health insurance premiums will increase by €12.50. As a result, average payments will reach €169 per month.
Parliamentary opposition blocks cabinet’s €60 deductible hike
Originally, the cabinet planned to raise the mandatory deductible by €60. This move aimed to generate €583.5 million for the national budget next year. However, the proposal failed to secure a majority in the House of Representatives. Capping the increase at €15 leaves the minority government with a €613 million shortfall next year. Furthermore, parliament’s pushback makes the long-term goal of raising €618 million annually unlikely to succeed.
National healthcare spending hits €118 billion
Healthcare remains one of the largest expenditure items in the national budget. Total spending is projected to reach €118 billion next year. Because costs are rising, the minority cabinet emphasized that structural reforms are necessary. In an official press release, the government confirmed it will seek broad support across both houses of parliament.
Government allocates funding for prevention and public health
To lower long-term costs, the ministry is channeling extra funds into public health and social support programs:
- Community and family support: The ministry will direct €25 million to municipal support for vulnerable families. In addition, it will provide €40 million for targeted neighborhood assistance.
- Youth and sports: Officials allocated €23 million to provide free fruit in schools. Meanwhile, they set aside €26 million to build and maintain sports facilities.
- Shingles vaccination expansion: The government set aside €47 million next year for shingles vaccinations. Eventually, an additional €100 million annually will fund expanded coverage for adults aged 61 to 69.
@ anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
