[Budget problems in rehabilitation]

The German Pension Insurance's spending for rehabilitative benefits is capped by a statutorily determined rehab budget, which is adjusted only in keeping with the development of gross income. Due to demographics and other factors rehabilitation need is increasing and it is getting more and more difficult to provide the necessary participation benefits. This can have an impact on the quality and effectiveness of rehabilitation and gives rise to the question whether prioritisation or even rationing of rehabilitation benefits will be necessary. Accordingly, a modified mechanism for adjustment of the rehab budget is discussed, which takes into account at least the main influences on rehabilitation need.