Health insurance 2026: what is changing and why it matters

The outlines of the health insurance for 2026 are known, and once again one question is central: how do we ensure that good care remains accessible without the premium becoming unaffordable?

This year, the government has opted for stability on the one hand and a greater focus on prevention on the other, which is clearly reflected in the changes.

The excess remains at £385, which is reassuring for many people at a time when the cost of almost everything is rising. Premiums are rising slightly, but less sharply than in previous years. However, insurers still differ considerably from one another, so it remains crucial to compare them.

What characterises 2026 in particular is the increased focus on early care and accessible advice. For example, the “consultation with a friend” will no longer be subject to the excess. For many people, this lowers the threshold for seeking help in good time.

Prevention will also receive more attention. The stop smoking programme will soon be reimbursed three times a year. This is not only good for the health of the insured, but ultimately also for healthcare costs as a whole. In addition, reimbursement for exercise therapy for axSpA will be structurally included in the basic package, so that patients with this chronic condition will receive better long-term care.

In addition, some personal contributions will be adjusted and the exact premiums will continue to vary per insurer. The premiums for 2026 are known, so comparisons can already be made.

For insured persons: good healthcare will remain accessible, with more focus on prevention and early support.

For professionals in healthcare, HR and insurance: now is the time to inform clients, employees or business relations about the impact of the changes.

For everyone: make an informed choice. Don't just look at the premium, but above all at what you need yourself. The 2026 health insurance shows that small adjustments can have a big impact: fewer barriers, more prevention and a more stable financial framework. A balance between affordability and quality, exactly what many people need.