Draft Care Reform Bill Proposes New Support and Digitalization

Berlin – A draft law from Germany's Federal Ministry of Health, the Pflegeneuordnungsgesetz (PNOG), dated June 3, 2026, has become known. The proposed legislation seeks to reform the country's long-term care insurance system in response to increasing demand for care services and significant financial strain on the social care insurance (SPV).

The draft introduces a package of measures designed to bolster the care sector. Key proposals include the establishment of new support budgets to simplify services and increase transparency, greater support for home-based care, and incentives for increased digitalization within care facilities. The reform also aims to stabilize the financing of the social care insurance system.

Specific provisions target prevention and rehabilitation, offering those over 60 an enhanced entitlement to medical services for early detection and prevention of age-related health risks. A "care companion" service is proposed to provide professional guidance and support for individuals receiving care at home and their families.

To improve accessibility and user experience, the draft outlines a digital "care cockpit" that would consolidate all relevant information and tools for care recipients and their relatives. The reform encourages innovation and the adoption of technology in care settings, allowing for deviations from standard contractual requirements under certain conditions. A sum of 1.6 billion euros has been allocated from a special infrastructure and climate neutrality fund for the digitalization of long-term care facilities.

The proposed legislation also seeks to limit the increase in out-of-pocket expenses for care recipients and their families. Measures to ensure long-term financial sustainability include adjustments to contribution rates and benefit calculations for the social care insurance.