Health Care in Frankfurt
Summary: Dive into healthcare resources for expats and digital nomads in Frankfurt: identify leading healthcare providers, hospitals, and medical centers for optimal care.
Frankfurt is home to a comprehensive healthcare system that provides both public and private options for medical care. The public healthcare system is known as the Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV) and is used by most German citizens. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Germany, however, many expats and digital nomads opt for private health insurance.
Germany's Healthcare System
Germany's public healthcare system is funded by taxes and provides basic medical coverage for all German citizens. It is also available to foreigners who are employed in Germany and have a residence permit. The public healthcare system covers most medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications. However, it does not cover certain treatments such as cosmetic surgery or alternative medicine. Private health insurance is available for those who wish to have more comprehensive coverage.
Public hospitals in Frankfurt are generally well-equipped and provide quality care. They are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. The public hospitals in Frankfurt are typically crowded and wait times can be long. However, the staff is usually friendly and helpful.
Private hospitals in Frankfurt are more expensive than public hospitals, but they offer more personalized care and shorter wait times. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Frankfurt are typically well-equipped and offer a wide range of services. The staff is usually friendly and helpful.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Frankfurt
- University Hospital Frankfurt: This is a public hospital located in the city center. It is well-equipped and provides a wide range of services.
- St. Mary's Hospital: This is a private hospital located in the city center. It specializes in cardiology and orthopedics.
- Frankfurt International Clinic: This is a private clinic located in the city center. It specializes in medical care for expats and digital nomads.
- Klinikum Offenbach: This is a public hospital located in Offenbach, about 20 minutes from Frankfurt by car. It is well-equipped and provides a wide range of services.
Emergency Services in Frankfurt
Frankfurt has a well-developed emergency services system. Ambulance services are available and can be called by dialing 112. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, however, there can be delays during peak times.
Health Insurance Companies in Frankfurt
The most popular private health insurers in Frankfurt are AOK, Techniker Krankenkasse, and Barmer. These companies provide comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- The Insider's Guide to Frankfurt
- 5 Tips for Living in Frankfurt
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Germany
- Best Places to Live in Germany
- Real Estate in Germany
- Pros & Cons of Living in Germany
- How to Buy a Home in Germany
- What It's Like Living in Frankfurt
- Pros and Cons of Living in Germany 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Germany