Karlsruhe, GermanyHealth Care in Karlsruhe
Summary: Learn about the health system in Karlsruhe: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Karlsruhe.
The healthcare system in Karlsruhe is a combination of public and private healthcare. Germany's public healthcare system is called the Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV) and is used by most German citizens and residents. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Germany, however, many expats and digital nomads opt for private health insurance. Public hospitals in Karlsruhe are generally recommended for minor medical issues, however, for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, private hospitals are usually recommended.
Germany's Healthcare System
Germany's public healthcare system, the Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV), is used by most German citizens and residents. It is funded by contributions from employers and employees, and provides access to a wide range of medical services. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Germany, however, many expats and digital nomads opt for private health insurance. Public hospitals in Karlsruhe are generally recommended for minor medical issues, however, for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, private hospitals are usually recommended.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Karlsruhe
In Karlsruhe, there are several recommended clinics and hospitals for expats. These include:
- Klinikum Karlsruhe (public hospital), located in Moltkestrasse 90, 76133 Karlsruhe
- Klinikum St. Marien (public hospital), located in Amalienstrasse 33, 76227 Karlsruhe
- Klinikum am Europakanal (private hospital), located in Am Europakanal 1, 76187 Karlsruhe
- Klinikum Pforzheim (public hospital), located in Robert-Koch-Strasse 1, 75172 Pforzheim (approximately 30 minutes by car from Karlsruhe)
Emergency Services in Karlsruhe
Karlsruhe has an ambulance service that can be called in an emergency. The number to call is 112. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, however, there can be delays depending on the situation.
Health Insurance Companies in Karlsruhe
The most popular private health insurers in Karlsruhe are AOK, Barmer, Techniker Krankenkasse, and DAK-Gesundheit. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, however, some opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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