The increase in the cost of health services and, by extension, health insurance premiums is noted by the Association of Hellenic Insurance Companies, asking for the help of the state, the supervisory authorities and the stakeholders involved in the cost. The Association stresses that "public debate, which is limited to insurance companies without accounting for all the factors that shape the cost of insurance, will not solve the problem.".
AN INCREASE OF UP TO 14.6% IN THE NET COST OF HEALTH COVER
The total cost of health claims paid by insurance companies has a catalytic effect on the level of the premium, says the Hellenic Association of Insurance Companies, pointing out that following the pandemic, there has been a significant increase of 14%–14.6% in the net cost of health cover. It also notes that the cost of the premium incorporates the operating costs of the insurance company and the fees of insurance intermediaries, and that the premium is subject to a 15% premium tax for adults.
The EAAE, using data from the Bank of Greece, reveals that the health sector is experiencing a loss. "Insurance companies, under the strict European Solvency II framework, must ensure adequate premiums to cover the risks they assume at all times and in full. They shall proceed with increases that are absolutely necessary to meet rising health claims and other insurance costs," it underlined.
PROPOSALS OF THE EAAE
- Strengthen competition in the health sector by simplifying the framework for setting up new private hospitals and attracting investment more quickly
- Generalise the application of DRGs to the private sector, regardless of who pays
- Review of the 24% VAT rate on private health services
- Extend the 15% tax exemption on health insurance premiums to all age groups or at least to those over 65
- PPP partnership through cooperation between insurance companies and public hospitals