We are among the Europeans who pay the most out-of-pocket for medical services, relative to monthly income. That’s because the sums collected from insurance cover less than half of the system’s expenses. The conclusions of the Eurostat report

This situation often leads to postponing or avoiding consultations, further worsening health problems and increasing long-term costs.

Eurostat reports show that, on average, a family in Europe pays between 14 and 15% of medical costs directly. In Romania, direct payments borne by patients reach 23%. The data show that, on average, a Romanian spends 223 euros per year for medical investigations, apart from the contribution to health. Even though we have one of the smallest amounts in absolute value, it still significantly affects our income.

Moreover, a study carried out by the Academy of Economic Studies shows that the money collected from the social health insurance contribution covers less than half of the total expenditure of the system in a year. This despite the fact that the budget has increased by 40%. On the other hand, Romania remains the country in the European Union with the most social categories exempted from paying the health contribution. Legislative changes in recent months have reduced their number, but the money collected does not cover the great need for medical services.

Radu Comșa, health policy consultant: The largest component of the fund’s expenses are hospital services, with 46% of the total, 32 billion lei in 2024, followed by medicines with 33% of the fund, 21 billion lei in 2024.