The proposed hospital reform, currently under discussion in the Bundestag, aims to address costs totaling 50 billion euros.

The reform aims to establish nationwide quality standards for different medical specialties and reduce overcapacity in hospitals.

The financing of the hospital reform is expected to be a shared responsibility between federal states and statutory health insurance, potentially leading to increased contribution rates for insured individuals.

Carola Reimann, head of the AOK federal association, argues that the modernization of hospitals should primarily be funded by federal and state tax revenues.

Reimann emphasizes that without the involvement of private insurance, privately insured patients would benefit from facilities funded by the statutory health insurance community.

She highlights that nearly ten percent of all hospital treatments involve privately insured patients, suggesting they should contribute to the reform's funding.

Reimann proposed implementing surcharges on hospital bills for privately insured patients as a feasible solution for cost-sharing.

She argues that if current plans proceed, privately insured patients would be treated in hospital beds funded by the solidarity community of statutory insured individuals, which she considers unfair.

Michaela Engelmeier, head of the German Social Association, criticized the plans, stating they undermine the principle of solidarity in the healthcare system.

Health Minister Karl Lauterbach has been promoting his reform plans, which seek to increase specialization in healthcare and reduce bureaucratic processes.

The GKV, the umbrella organization of statutory health insurance funds, considers the proposed funding method unconstitutional.

The hospital reform is currently being discussed in the Bundestag, with a public expert hearing scheduled and protests planned against the proposed changes.