Innovating Healthcare: How to start up in the German health insurance market

Developments such as demographic change, digitalization and the shortage of skilled workers are putting high pressure on healthcare in Germany to innovate. Entrepreneurial initiatives that provide meaningful approaches to further development are more in demand than ever. However, statutory health insurance (GKV) and its special regulatory environment make market entry for healthcare innovations extremely challenging. The book lowers market entry barriers by providing practical knowledge about the characteristics of the statutory health insurance market, such as its regulatory framework, the relationship system among key stakeholders, the principle of evidence, and the role of statutory health insurance companies. It explicitly highlights the consequences of these factors on market access and development, enabling readers to build specific expertise and develop targeted market entry strategies. Additionally, the book offers first-hand insights into the dos and don'ts of strategic partnerships with statutory health insurance companies. This unique combination promotes equal cooperation between innovative entrepreneurs and statutory health insurance companies, accelerating the diffusion of healthcare innovations within the statutory health insurance system. The authors have been involved in numerous activities and projects aimed at advancing healthcare within the statutory health insurance system. They bring many years of experience in innovation management and have participated in a wide range of market access processes across various areas of care, including outpatient and inpatient, preventive and curative, diagnostic and therapeutic, as well as digital and 'analog' healthcare. In addition, they possess relevant experience in both science and politics.

As Health Innovation Manager at IKK Südwest, Florian Brandt is involved in the development, implementation, and evaluation of novel approaches with the aim of improving healthcare. This includes promoting the introduction and dissemination of digital technologies in the German healthcare market. In addition to his professional work, he researches and publishes on current health topics. He previously completed a degree in economics and a doctorate in theoretical medicine at Saarland University.