More and more parties want to abolish the deductible in healthcare. This would then be compensated by, for example, rising taxes for high incomes. A good plan?
The deductible has been introduced to better cover increasing healthcare costs. People who need care pay up to an amount of 385 euros themselves. This does not include a visit to the doctor. In recent years, the deductible has increased each time, but in 2017 the amount will remain the same.
‘Procrastination costs more’
GroenLinks, SP, PVV and 50Plus have already announced that they advocate zero deductibles. According to the parties, it is an obstacle for some people to go to the doctor. “In the long run, they incur extremely high healthcare costs. You’d better be there early,” said GroenLinks leader Jesse Klaver.
State Secretary Van Rijn (PvdA) says he would like to look at a reduction. According to him, it should not be the case that people walk around with health problems for a long time because they are afraid of high costs.
‘Own risk is social’
Minister Schippers of Public Health defends the deductible: “I think it is good to justify it. The maximum difference between someone who uses care extremely often and someone who never needs care remains 385 euros. I think that is very social.” Completely abolishing the deductible will cost the state almost 4 billion euros.
Your opinion
What do you think? Should the deductible be abolished, or is it necessary to (partly) cover the healthcare costs in the Netherlands? Cast your vote at the top left and leave a comment below.
