Modern fitness trackers and smartwatches are essential tools for improving health, prompting health insurance providers to support their use through subsidies. Assistance varies, with some insurers offering direct financial support, while others implement bonus point systems for engaging in health activities. Notable providers like Techniker Krankenkasse and Barmer reward members for preventive measures, while specific subsidies are also available for seniors. Comprehensive comparisons help consumers make informed choices when investing in fitness technology.
Transform Your Health with Fitness Trackers and Smartwatches
Modern fitness trackers and smartwatches serve as more than just timepieces; they are powerful tools for enhancing your well-being. Their diverse functionalities can lead to significant health improvements, which is why health insurance providers are taking notice.
Health insurance companies are motivated to encourage healthier lifestyles among their members to minimize system costs. As a result, many of them offer financial support for those looking to invest in their health through fitness technology. However, the support varies widely between providers.
Understanding Subsidies: Direct vs. Bonus Systems
The amount of financial assistance available for purchasing a fitness tracker or smartwatch largely depends on your health insurance provider. While a handful of insurers provide direct subsidies, most rely on a bonus points system.
In these bonus systems, participants can earn points by engaging in health-promoting activities, which can then be redeemed for cash or rewards such as a smartwatch. Below, we break down the offerings from various insurance funds.
Health Insurance Providers Offering Subsidies
The General Local Health Insurance Funds (AOK) have varying subsidy policies depending on your regional association, which affects the amount and conditions of the support.
Techniker Krankenkasse (TK): This provider offers a bonus program where you can earn up to 200 euros annually. By participating in preventive health measures, you can accumulate points, and if you opt for the ‘health dividend’, you could see this amount rise to 400 euros, redeemable for health-related products and services.
Barmer: Similar to TK, Barmer also enables you to earn points through health activities, providing at least ten euros for each participation, with a yearly cap of 150 euros.
IKK classic: Members of IKK classic can also receive subsidies for engaging in health initiatives. Depending on your activities, you may receive a cash bonus or a subsidy for a fitness tracker, with the latter being three times greater than the former. For instance, a gym membership and maintaining a healthy BMI could yield a cash bonus of 75 euros or a 225 euro subsidy for a tracker purchase.
DAK-Gesundheit: This provider highlights preventive examinations in its bonus program, rewarding one euro for each point earned. Engaging with specific health services can increase this rate to 1.20 euros, and for sports and measuring devices, it doubles to 2 euros, making it easier to fund a smartwatch.
Additional Support for Senior Smartwatches
There are unique guidelines in place for senior smartwatches or emergency call buttons that are based on the individual’s care level. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider for specific details on coverage.
If you’re still contemplating whether to invest in a fitness tracker or smartwatch, our comprehensive comparison tests delineate the similarities and differences, guiding you toward an informed purchasing decision.