Optional deductibles in GKV (statutory German health insurance): do they also exert an effect in the medium term?

Aim Since 2007 the GKV in Germany has been able to offer optional deductibles. This work investigates the medium-term effects of this on claims for health benefits. This study also examines whether the size of the deductible influences the volume of claims. Subject and methods The volumes of claims during the year 2009 were compared between a group whose health insurance tariff carried a deductible and a group with no deductible. Within the group with a deductible, the relationship between the amounts claimed and the chosen size of the deductible was investigated. Results Comparison of the middle ranks between the group with a deductible and the group without shows that during 2009 the two groups incurred significantly different costs for hospital treatment, drugs and remedies: the amount of health benefits claimed is €707 lower among the group with a deductible. Several non-parametric tests show that the volume of benefits claimed decreases with increasing deductibles. Conclusion Optional deductible tariffs offered by the GKV can also influence the volume of health benefits claimed in the medium term. The sizes of deductibles can be structured so as to achieve targeted control of the amounts claimed.