15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Germany
Last updated on Feb 06, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Germany is generally considered to be excellent. Germany has a well-developed healthcare system that provides comprehensive coverage for its citizens. The country has a high number of highly trained medical professionals and advanced medical technology. In comparison to the US, Germany has a lower rate of infant mortality and a higher life expectancy. Emergency services in Germany are reliable and efficient. Ambulance services are available 24/7 and can be called by dialing the emergency number 112. Ambulances are typically staffed with a paramedic and a doctor, and are equipped with the latest medical technology.
How are healthcare services Germany?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Germany, they replied:
"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 expat living in Germany.
What are medical services in Germany like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Germany, they replied:
"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," remarked one expat in Germany.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Germany?
"Healthcare in Germany is generally considered to be of high quality and is relatively affordable. Most people in Germany are required to have health insurance, which is usually provided by a public health insurance provider. The cost of health insurance depends on the type of coverage and the individual's income, but it is generally affordable. In addition, there are private health insurance providers that offer more comprehensive coverage, but these plans tend to be more expensive," wrote an expat living in Germany.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are emergency services like in Germany?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Germany wrote:
"Emergency services in Germany are highly efficient and reliable. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 112, the national emergency number. This number is free of charge and can be dialed from any phone, including landlines and mobile phones. The operator will ask for the caller's location and the nature of the emergency, and will then dispatch the appropriate emergency services," wrote one expat.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Germany is home to some of the world's leading medical facilities, with many cities offering a wide variety of specialist medical services. The major metropolitan areas such as Berlin, Munich, Hamburg and Frankfurt boast an impressive selection of both public and private healthcare facilities, hosting an array of medical specialists including cardiologists, neurologists, surgeons and oncologists. The larger cities also have a greater variety of specialized medical teams such as fertility clinics, pediatric specialists and geriatric care centers. In addition, Germany's smaller cities and towns often have a number of excellent general practitioners, providing quality and accessible healthcare for their local population," wrote one expat.
Are common prescription medications available in Germany?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Germany. Most medications are available through pharmacies, and some are available over the counter. Prescriptions are usually required for medications that are not available over the counter. In addition, some medications may require special authorization from the government before they can be obtained," remarked one expat in Germany.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Germany?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Germany are of a high quality. German hospitals have world-class infrastructure and state-of-the-art technology, and doctors and staff are highly trained and experienced. The quality of medical care in Germany is especially distinguished for its efficiency and organization. Patients are generally given accurate diagnoses and detailed treatment plans. Additionally, many German medical professionals speak English, making communication easier. In general, medical care in Germany is reliable and safe, and is provided with compassion and respect," said one expat.
"In Dusseldorf, public hospitals offer emergency treatment as well. Private clinics are affordable only with private insurance. Costs are still cheaper than US," remarked one expat in Dusseldorf.
As a foreigner living in Germany, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Germany, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Germany is known for its high quality and is funded by taxes. It is available to all residents, regardless of nationality, and covers a wide range of services, including preventive care, hospital stays, and specialist care. The cost of care is usually quite low, and in some cases, it may even be free," said an expat in Germany.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Germany if they have access to public healthcare in Germany. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"I would not like to catch covid here. If I had to be hospitalized I would be in debt for thousands of dollars. I have health insurance," said an expat in Kandern.
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Germany. The government has implemented a range of measures to ensure that the healthcare system is able to cope with the increased demand for services. This has included increasing the number of hospital beds, expanding the capacity of intensive care units, and providing additional funding for medical staff. In addition, the government has also implemented measures to ensure that the public is able to access healthcare services safely, such as introducing telemedicine services and providing additional protective equipment for healthcare workers. Overall, the healthcare system in Germany has been able to cope with the increased demand for services during the pandemic, and the government has taken steps to ensure that the public is able to access healthcare services safely," commented one expat living in Germany.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Germany?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Germany about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is a good idea to research birthing practices ahead of time, as childbirth protocols can differ significantly between countries. Look into the options available and make sure to ask plenty of questions before making any decisions. Find out about maternity leave laws and the documents and paperwork needed for registration, especially if you will be the only parent. It is important to take time to build a relationship with the medical staff that will be attending to you during childbirth so that you feel comfortable. Additionally, you should have a plan for when you leave the hospital, including medical care for the newborn, as well as any postnatal care and/or community services you may need. Finally, don’t forget to give yourself time to rest and adjust to your new parental role," said one person in Germany.
"Ask a lot of questions. Doctors are not forthcoming, especially if there is a language barrier. Educate yourself about the healthcare system, pregnancy and giving birth, and ask A LOT of questions," remarked one expat in Munich.
Are healthcare services good in Germany?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Germany. They wrote:
"Medical care in Germany is of the highest order. Small towns and villages all have doctors and hospitals are nearby. Just a couple of months ago I was hospitalized for an emergency and my local internist, just a few steps from my home, quickly sent me to the hospital where I was admitted for an emergency operation which turned out to be peritonitis due to perforated appendix. The hospital is about 20 minutes away where I was taken by ambulance. Everything moved quickly and efficiently from emergency room, to surgery, etc. Being a private patient I have access to chief surgeon who was fantastic and has a great reputation. My 7 day hospital stay and care in the hospital (not one day too short nor one day too long) was superb. Over the years I have had several hospital experiences, all very positive. As my situation was life threatening I consider myself lucky to have been in Germany where I received such prompt and excellent care," said one expat in Friedrichsdorf.
"Germany has a high standard of healthcare services throughout the country. Utilizing a social insurance system, healthcare is available to German citizens through a combination of public health care insurance and private health care insurance. All German citizens are required to have health insurance, which is typically administered through the statutory health insurance fund. For those seeking private insurance, premiums vary depending on the type of care needed and on the insurance plan chosen. Outpatient services are provided through family doctors, specialists, and therapists. Inpatient services are provided through hospitals, either public or private. In general, Germany has a particularly strong focus on preventive health services, in order to limit the need for curative treatments," wrote a person living in Germany.
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.
Additional Information:
- Germany Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Germany
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Germany
- Best Places to Live in Germany
- Real Estate in Germany
- Guide to Real Estate in Germany
- Pros & Cons of Living in Germany
- Cost of Living in Germany
- Top Hospitals in Germany by Specialty
- Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Germany (Plus, Itineraries)
- Moving to Germany with a Pet
- Understanding Mental Health in Germany
- Pros and Cons of Living in Germany 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Germany