Austria: What will change in health insurance in 2024

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The new year 2024 will improve the health sector for those with health insurance.

Examinations such as prostate MRI and coronary CT will be covered by health insurance throughout Austria, and there will be a subsidy for psychological treatment. Reimbursement of costs following visits to elective doctors will be faster starting July 1 because they will have to send their fee notes digitally to the health insurance fund. Implementation of the recently adopted healthcare reform is also set to begin.

Changes to health insurance benefits for those with health insurance in 2024
Among other things, the search for interested parties for 100 new health insurance fund positions is to begin, with half in the fields of general medicine, pediatrics, and adolescent medicine and the other half in the fields of gynecology, dermatology, ophthalmology, and psychiatry (including for children and adolescents). Many new primary care units (PVE) will be launched, including the first in Tyrol. Another feature is a starter bonus of 100,000 euros from federal funds for new contract doctors in general medicine, pediatrics, and gynecology.

Preference for medical students seeking a health insurance contract
13 preferential places will be created for medical students aiming for a health insurance contract after completing their training or joining the medical team within the Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK).

Cost subsidy for psychological health treatment
From January 1, 2024, there will be a cost subsidy from ÖGK for psychological health treatment, but it will not be a benefit in kind; this is because the federal funds for financing are too low, as ÖGK states. Instead, patient transportation by cab will be regulated nationwide from the beginning of the year with an overall contract.

Digital offers for health promotion
According to the Ministry of Health, new digital services and health promotion programs will be created as part of the health reform in the coming year. The expansion of vaccination programs and hospital reform measures will also be tackled. The aim is to improve care for post-viral syndromes and psychosocial care. The ministry also has the amendment of the Psychotherapy Act on its list. In the future, training is to be offered at public universities.