2023 Employee Representative Elections Barmer: We’re running for IG Metall

Here’s what our candidates at Barmer Health Insurance have to say:

“Dangerous cuts are being made to preventive care”

… says Jan-Paul Grüner (45), union secretary.

Why are you involved in social self-governance?

Because for us employees, a functioning welfare state with good benefits is of paramount importance. That’s why our commitment is worthwhile—whether through the democratic self-governance of social insurance programs or through high-profile campaigns to influence legislation.

Which issues are particularly pressing for you?

Dangerous cuts are being made to pension benefits, with devastating consequences for individuals. For women in particular, this means high out-of-pocket costs that not everyone can afford—or the risk that life-threatening illnesses will be detected too late.

What does the healthcare system of the future look like to you?

I envision a healthcare system in which everyone receives excellent care. Anyone who wants a private room or a visit from the chief physician for non-medical reasons can pay for it privately or purchase supplemental insurance. But the systematic division of patients into two classes must be overcome. That’s why, together with IG Metall, we’re fighting for a universal health insurance system.

“Women are underrepresented”

… says Inga Neumann (44), union secretary.

Why are you involved in social self-governance?

In my job, I work to ensure employee participation in the workplace and good working conditions. This includes being able to age healthily. And that requires good health care. I want to have a say in that.

What issues are particularly close to your heart?

Good care and a broad funding base. But I’m also concerned about research and education. For example, women aren’t adequately represented in many clinical trials. Medications often affect women and men differently. If this isn’t taken into account, it can have fatal consequences for women. That has to change, and I want to advocate for that in self-governance.

What does the healthcare system of the future look like to you?

It’s a system in which everyone receives the necessary and best possible care. A system in which everyone contributes according to their ability—and there’s no competition for healthy young people. In short: a solidarity-based citizens’ insurance system!

“Bringing in experiences from the workplace—extremely important!”

...says Thomas Bleile (57), Chief Representative of IG Metall Villingen-Schwenningen.

Why are you involved in social self-governance?

As a union representative, I’m close to the people and hear firsthand about their concerns and hardships. I consider it extremely important to bring this knowledge and the experiences from my work in the workplaces to the table. Only in this way can we effectively achieve the best outcomes for people.

What issues are particularly pressing for you right now?

Right now, I’m very concerned about the shortage of skilled workers in the healthcare system and in daycare centers: Due to the lack of staff, the workload has increased immensely. We need to make sure we protect our colleagues’ health and pay them fairly and appropriately.

What does the healthcare system of the future look like to you?

Quite clearly: In the long term, we need a universal health insurance system. Everyone with an income must contribute—including the self-employed, civil servants, and members of parliament. Solidarity is the guiding principle, and that’s only possible if everyone participates.