Using Australian DRGs in Germany:a commentary

Abstract

Germany will begin a change to per case payment by DRG from January 2003. It has selected the Australian DRGclassification as the basis for patient categorisation, in preference to the many other DRG variants around the world.The main aim is increase control over expenditure. We describe some of the reasons for high levels of spending onhospital inpatient care, including the fragmented insurance system and supplier-induced demand. We summarise thereasons why Australian DRGs were selected, and note some of the benefits that will accrue for Australia.