In addition to mandatory cover through their health insurance fund, many Belgians take out supplementary insurance – either individually or through their employer – for hospital stays and outpatient medical costs. Insurers and health insurance funds are permitted to adjust the premiums for these policies annually based on the medical index.
The medical index for 2026 was set on 1 July 2026 at:
- 8.88% for single rooms;
- 13.91% for double or multi-bed rooms;
- 9.78% for outpatient costs, with the exact percentage varying by age group.
Not necessarily the same increase for every premium
The medical index doesn’t automatically determine the extent of an insurance premium increase. Insurers may raise premiums by up to the medical index percentage, but they can also apply a lower indexation rate. They can also opt to follow the consumer price index – which fluctuates monthly and stood at 3.40% in June 2026 – or combine the two systems.
As a broker and administrator of group health insurance plans, we analyse both historical and projected claims statistics. Based on this analysis, we consult with the client and the insurer to determine whether an index-based adjustment is required. If the statistics are favourable, we discuss whether the indexation rate can be limited or even set to zero percent.
The medical index is calculated using a method prescribed by royal decree and specifically tracks trends in medical costs. The index that takes effect on 1 July 2026 is based on data from the period 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2025. This means that there is a time lag compared to, for example, the consumer price index.
...
Would you like more information?
Read the complete article here: https://www.vanbreda.be/en/insights/new-medical-index-clear-increase-for-two-and-multi-bed-rooms