Huss praises Mattle: Way to the health reform is now clear!

Huss praises Mattle: Way to the health reform is now clear!

Andreas Huss, who has been the regular chairman of the Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) since July 2025, has expressly welcomed the recent concerns of the Tyrolean governor Anton Mattle to the reform of the cash registers of the Austrian Health Insurance Fund. Mattle described the merger of the regional health insurance companies as a mistake and called for a "reform of the reform". Huss emphasizes that Mattle’s clear speech to the mistakes of ÖGK reform and the inadequate regional presence is gratifying.

In the discussion about the reform, employee representatives also express criticism and see numerous mistakes in the reform called “unsuccessful”. A central challenge that Huss wants to address is the fact that insured persons cannot decide independently about their contributions and are therefore "externally determined" by employer representatives.

economic challenges and reform goals

The ÖGK faces financial difficulties, with a forecast deficit of 900 million euros. Factors such as weak economic development, rising unemployment and demographic change significantly burden the premium income. These challenges lead to a record increase for visits to the doctor and cost -intensive treatments, which further increases the burden on the system, as is listed on Gesundheitskasse.at

HUSS emphasizes the need to regain financial means to reduce the influence of employers and private insurance and to strengthen regional care. These aspects are central goals for the desired reform. In addition, the ÖGK ensures that medically necessary services are provided regardless of age, place of residence or social status. Changes in the service catalog from July 1st include adjustments to the own cost shares for various health services.

The framework of health reform

The current health reform in Austria is the largest structural change in decades. It aims to improve medical care and tackle the problems in the health system. The federal government will also provide over 2 billion euros for health and care by 2028 annually. A total amount of 14 billion euros is raised by the federal government, the federal states and social security insurance to ensure high -quality care, as on Social Ministry.

Key points of this comprehensive reform are the strengthening of the resident area, structural reforms in hospitals and the expansion of digital offers. In particular, the provision of 300 million euros annually for additional cash register should contribute to improving medical care and increasing accessibility. In the long term, the patient should benefit: inside of shorter waiting times and a supply close to home.