Approved on December 28, 2024, the 2025 Budget Law introduces several updates regarding the healthcare sector.
With 112 votes in favor, 67 against, and 1 abstention, the Budget Law officially came into force on January 1, 2025.
National Health Fund: the figures
According to the approved provisions, the 2025 Budget Law allocates an increase in funding for the National Health Service, from €136.5 billion in 2025 to €141.3 billion in 2027. This maneuver thus provides for increased resources compared to those allocated by current legislation.
The Palliative Care Fund also increases, with an additional €10 million.
Waiting lists and private sector limitations
To reduce waiting times for specialist visits and exams, a maximum spending cap has been set for the Regions when purchasing services from private providers.
To encourage this process, incentives are planned for Regions that successfully reduce waiting lists:
€50 million for 2025 and €100 million per year from 2026.
Healthcare personnel: increased funding
Starting January 1, 2025, emergency department bonuses have been refinanced with an additional €50 million, distributed as follows:
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€15 million for medical management
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€35 million for other healthcare personnel
Furthermore, €120 million annually has been allocated to support medical residents.
Beginning with the 2025/2026 academic year, the fixed portion of the salary will increase by 5% for all specializations, while the variable portion will increase by 50% for less attractive specializations.
In addition, the specialization training contract, previously granted only to medical residents, will now also be extended to non-medical residents.
Alongside an increase in the specificity allowance, a 5% flat tax on overtime for nurses has also been introduced.
Emphasis on Prevention
Prevention continues to be a key focus.
In addition to the refinancing of the lung cancer screening program and the Fund for combating eating and nutrition disorders, the following measures are being introduced:
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The National Registry of Breast Units
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A Fund for the prevention and treatment of obesity:
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€1.2 million in 2025
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€1.3 million in 2026
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€1.7 million in 2027
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A Fund for pathological dependencies with an allocation of €94 million
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Awareness and information campaigns for ovarian reserve testing:
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€0.5 million in 2025
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€1.5 million in both 2026 and 2027
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Psychological bonus: focus on mental health
Resources for psychological support are increasing:
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€9.5 million in 2025
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€8.5 million in 2026
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€9 million in 2027
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€8 million in 2028
In support of mental health, a Fund for psychological support services for students has been established:
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€10 million in 2025
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€18.5 million in 2026
Pharmaceutical sector: digital and service innovation
Another central theme is the pharmaceutical sector.
The digitalization of prescriptions continues, as does the “pharmacy of services” pilot project.
The pharmacy will take on a new role, becoming a hub for vaccinations, testing, and screenings—but also a place where citizens can choose their primary care physician.