Since 1 February 2023, the rates for reimbursable sessions with psychotherapists in Luxembourg had been fixed at €144. However, following two wage indexations, the rate is now €155.07.
Adults have 70% of their consultation fees reimbursed, minors the full costs.
According to representatives from the Federation of Associations representing Psychotherapists in Luxembourg (FAPSYLUX), the new reimbursement strategy is appreciated in theory, yet still not functioning as it should in practice. The list of remaining ambiguities is primarily attributed to the lack of a proper convention between the FAPSYLUX and the National Health Fund (CNS).
Cases of failed reimbursements have thus been reported over the course of this first year, which at times came down to the simplest administrative issues, such as missing stamps or overly short prescription deadlines. Another issue is that direct payments have yet to be implemented, meaning that patients still have to advance therapy costs, which many struggle to afford.
Additionally, costs for family therapy, video consultations, and sessions longer than an hour are not being reimbursed.
Psychotherapists meanwhile believe that the session rate is too low and does not allow them to cover their accounting and administrative costs. Furthermore, the expenditure of time associated with diagnostics, report writing, and consultations with other practitioners is said not to be taken into account by the pilot reimbursement system.
The legislation in its current form was launched by Social Security Minister Claude Haagen after the FAPSYLUX and CNS failed to come to an agreement, with even mediation efforts not bearing any fruit.
The pilot project will run for a duration of two years. FAPSYLUX members will use that time to retain all issues and work out recommendations for future adaptations, which the Medical College also believes to be necessary.
