In the countdown to the German federal elections, politicians clash over the measures needed to pull the country out of economic slowdown. While scrutinizing taxes and budgets, they often overlook one key source of wealth: health. As the population ages and the costs of tackling diseases increase, targeted policies are needed to ensure Germany takes the path of growth in the upcoming years.
This is why I joined a group of experts to write a non-partisan call to action on health as the backbone for prosperity. The goal is to show decision-makers, regardless of their party lines, how promoting health creates greater fiscal space by contributing to societal well-being and economic resilience.
Expert highlights:
Understanding the major role health plays in the economy – comprising around 12% of the German GDP and employing more than 8 million workers – is the first step towards action.
Prevention translates into less healthcare costs and increased productivity due to reduced absences from work.
From AI to telemedicine, digitalization makes health provision more efficient.
Optimizing health systems through improved organization and technologies can help address skilled labor shortages.
Meet the authors:
Supported by:
Marion Bley, Managing Director, Kompetenzzentrum Gesundheitswirtschaft e.V.
Jürgen Graalmann, Managing Partner, Die BrückenKöpfe
Wolf-Dietrich Trenner, Board of Directors, AK Down-Syndrom Deutschland e.V.
Dr. Thomas Götz, Former State Secretary, Brandenburg and Berlin
It is time to stop viewing health as a cost factor and to recognize its crucial role as a driver of long-term, sustainable growth. The future government has a major opportunity to untap the potential of health, bringing stability and welfare to Germany.
