Insider's Guide to the Health System in Germany

Germany has a comprehensive healthcare system that is divided into public and private sectors. The public healthcare system is funded by taxes and is available to all German citizens and legal residents. The public healthcare system is known as the Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV) and covers most medical expenses. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Germany, however, they may need to pay additional fees. Public hospitals are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals.

Germany's Private Healthcare System

Germany also has a private healthcare system, which is funded by private health insurance companies. Private health insurance is typically more expensive than public health insurance, but it offers more comprehensive coverage and shorter wait times. Expats primarily use private hospitals, as they are more likely to have English-speaking staff and offer more specialized services. Private hospitals are also recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals.

Germany's Top Hospitals

Some of the most well-known hospitals in Germany include:

• Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin (public hospital in Berlin)
• Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg (public hospital in Heidelberg)
• Universitätsklinikum München (public hospital in Munich)
• Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (public hospital in Hamburg)
• Asklepios Klinik Barmbek (private hospital in Hamburg)
• Klinikum rechts der Isar (private hospital in Munich)
• Klinikum Stuttgart (private hospital in Stuttgart)

Health Insurance Companies in Germany

The most popular private health insurers in Germany are AOK, Techniker Krankenkasse, Barmer, and DAK-Gesundheit. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although there are also specialized expat health insurance providers available.

Insider Tips from Expats in Germany: How to Navigate the Health System

"Germany has a well-developed healthcare system that provides high-quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a wide range of medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. Doctors in Germany are highly trained and experienced, and the country has a strong emphasis on preventive care. Germany also has a comprehensive network of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications. In addition, Germany has a number of health insurance plans that provide coverage for medical services," commented one member living in Germany.

"Germany has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is funded by a combination of taxes and social security contributions, and is generally of a high quality. All German citizens and permanent residents are entitled to access the public healthcare system, and foreign residents are also eligible to use it, although they may have to pay a fee. Expats in Germany can use the public healthcare system, but they must first register with a local health insurance provider. Once registered, they can access the same services as German citizens, including preventive care, hospitalization, and specialist care," commented one member living in Germany.