Forgone and delayed care in Germany– inequalities and perceived health risk of unmet need

Unmet need is a prevailing issue in Germany and associated with perceived worsening of health, various indicators of social inequality, and health insurance. Reducing waiting times (e.g. through the further development of appointment service centres) and private co-payments as well as ensuring health care provision in deprived areas can contribute to a decrease of barrier-related unmet need and health risks. However, more in-depth studies are required to account for the complex nature of health care access.