The Gemeinsamen Bundesausschuss (G-BA) has initiated a comprehensive evaluation of acupuncture as a preventive treatment for migraines, signaling a potential shift in healthcare coverage. This assessment invites input from various stakeholders, including medical experts and product manufacturers, setting the stage for a thorough examination of acupuncture’s efficacy and cost-effectiveness within statutory health insurance frameworks.
Evaluation Objectives
The primary goal of the G-BA’s evaluation centers on determining the diagnostic and therapeutic benefits of acupuncture for migraine sufferers. By scrutinizing its medical necessity and economic viability, the committee aims to decide whether acupuncture should receive coverage under Germany’s statutory health insurance system. This process involves assessing existing research, clinical outcomes, and the overall impact on patient well-being.
Call for Stakeholder Participation
Experts in the medical field, patient representatives, and manufacturers of relevant medical products are urged to contribute their insights by completing a detailed questionnaire. Submissions, required in German, must be received by February 24, 2025. Additionally, manufacturers whose products may be affected by the evaluation are encouraged to provide comprehensive documentation, including product descriptions and technical compliance details, to facilitate informed decision-making.
- Potential inclusion of acupuncture in insurance coverage could increase accessibility for migraine patients.
- Manufacturers may need to adjust their product offerings based on evaluation outcomes.
- Healthcare providers might integrate acupuncture more widely into treatment protocols if approved.
- The evaluation process underscores the importance of evidence-based medicine in healthcare policy decisions.
The G-BA’s announcement, made on January 16, 2025, outlines critical deadlines and the necessary documentation required from contributors. Manufacturers who submit their documentation on time may also have the opportunity to participate in oral assessments, providing a platform for direct engagement during the evaluation hearings.
Extensive analysis by the G-BA will influence whether acupuncture becomes a reimbursable treatment under Germany’s statutory health insurance. This decision could significantly impact patient access to alternative therapies and shape the future landscape of migraine treatment. Stakeholders should closely monitor upcoming hearings and announcements from the G-BA to stay informed about potential changes and prepare accordingly.
Healthcare providers and patients alike will benefit from understanding the criteria and processes involved in the G-BA’s evaluation. Staying informed about submission requirements and deadlines ensures that all relevant parties can effectively contribute to the discussion and advocate for comprehensive migraine prevention strategies.

This article has been prepared with the assistance of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author.