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Healthcare in Germany is the oldest state system in Europe (dating back to the 1880s), but that doesn’t mean its outdated. The system is comparable with other European nations such as Sweden and the UK. On this page you can find a guide of the information you’re likely to need about the healthcare system as you prepare to move to Germany.
Looking for international expat health insurance in Germany? Check out these health insurance companies with tailor-made coverage for moving from the UK to Germany.
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With less than 10 years active, Ottonova has quickly become one of the most popular private health insurance companies for expats in Germany. You can find different coverage plans, depending on your needs and budget.
Cigna Global stands as a major international health insurance provider. They have a network of over 1.65 million providers in over 200 countries, and they offer a variety of plans to fit your individual needs. Cigna Global is committed to providing you with the peace of mind that you need, wherever you are in the world.
IMG is a trusted healthcare partner for individuals and families who need health insurance coverage while living or working abroad. They have a long record of excellent professional service, and they are committed to providing you with the peace of mind that you need, wherever you are in the world.
KLforExpats is a health insurance consultant specialising in helping expats find a health insurance plan in Germany that suits their needs.
You can also compare different companies requesting free quotes from our partner International Citizens Insurance. Do your research before making a decision! 👇.
Public healthcare in Germany requires insurance (Gesetlzliche Krankenversicherung or GKV) is compulsory for those in Germany earning less than €54,000 per year. Insurance payments are based on a percentage of your income split between you (8.2%)and your employer (7.3%).
Tax credits are available for families meaning that partners and children without a job are covered under your insurance for free. Students pay around €80 a month for coverage. There is also a charge of €10 for every day spent in the hospital.
For a temporary measure, it is possible to use the European Health Insurance Card however this is not meant for extended stays in the country. Once you are registered at the local town hall, have a social insurance number and your making national insurance contributions, you are entitled to state-run healthcare.
If you earn over €54,000 you can opt out of the state scheme and take out private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung or PKV). The advantage of this system is that there are much more treatment methods and wider coverage than the public system. Premiums depend on a lot of factors however they generally tend to range between €300 – €600 per month.
Practice hours are usually from 8 am to 1 pm and again from 3 pm to 6 pm Monday to Friday, many are closed Wednesday afternoon. For some doctors it is necessary to make an appointment for whereas others you can just turn up and wait. If it is an emergency you can book an appointment for the same day.
For the first visit of every quarter, it is necessary to pay a €10 fee however private patients may reclaim this.
Pharmacies are open from 09.00 to 18.00 Monday to Friday and 09.00 to 12.00 Saturday.
Medication doesn’t tend to come with dosage instructions on the package so be sure to ask your doctor for the recommended dosage.
If you have public insurance you will be given your prescription on a pink slip of paper, this means that you have to pay a fixed charge of 5 euros. If you have private insurance you will be given your prescription on a blue slip of paper, for this you will have to pay the full cost upfront but will be reimbursed by the insurance company.
Dentist visits in Germany are free for children and young people up to the age of 18. If you are looking for a doctor that operates under the state health system it is important to look for a sign saying Kassenartzt or Alle Kassen.
It is also recommended to check with your insurer what is and isn’t covered under your policy. State insurance has limited coverage and private insurance may not cover or fully reimburse all treatments.
Although the level of English in Germany is generally good some useful phrases to know are:
In addition to healthcare in Germany being of a high standard the country is also home to several world-leading universities, including the field of medical research.
Do you need more information to plan your healthcare and move to Germany? If so, we recommend that you take a look at the links below!
