The decision to allow hospitals to set the price of some 50% of the treatments they offer will generate savings of €500m in healthcare spending over the next few years, according to calculations from the government’s CPB economic policy unit.

At the moment, hospitals are free to determine their own fees for some 34% of treatments, but that will be extended to 50% next year, if the cabinet’s plans are approved.
Health minister Ab Klink thinks allowing health insurers to negotiate prices directly with hospitals will lead to lower costs and greater efficiency.