Healthcare in Germany

Written by Oleksandra Dosii Moderated by Andrew Stetsenko

Oleksandra Dosii

Oleksandra is a dedicated marketer with a passion for growing HR-tech products. She believes content marketing is about delivering high-quality content that provides value—not just generating leads. Since 2016, Oleksandra has been involved in tech talent relocation.

Andrew Stetsenko

Andrew has been involved in relocating tech talent for more than a decade—12 years, to be exact. Since he launched Relocate.me in 2017, over 500 users of our platform have found jobs and relocated to different countries. In the off time, Andrew is a long-distance swimmer and coffee taster.

Last update: July 26, 2024

Next update: Scheduled for February 1, 2025

Interesting facts:

• Germany has one of the oldest universal healthcare systems in the world, dating back to the 1880s.
• The system is based on the principle of solidarity, where everyone contributes to the system according to their means, and receives care according to their needs.
• The average life expectancy in Germany is around 81 years, reflecting the high quality of healthcare services available.

Overview of the German healthcare system

Germany invests heavily in its healthcare sector. According to the German Federal Statistical Office, healthcare expenditure is projected to reach 13% of the country's GDP in 2024, amounting to approximately €517.7 billion.

Renowned for its effectiveness and reliability, Germany's healthcare system operates on a dual public-private model, providing residents with a choice between statutory health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung or GKV) and private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung or PKV). This structure ensures comprehensive coverage and access to high-quality medical services for all citizens.

Germany's healthcare system also strongly emphasizes preventive care and public health initiatives. Regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings are heavily promoted and covered under the GKV. The country boasts an extensive network of healthcare providers, with about 1,914 hospitals and over 374,000 hospital beds, ensuring timely and quality care across both urban and rural areas. Most treatments and procedures are covered by health insurance, and patients have a high degree of freedom to choose their doctors, specialists, and hospitals. General practitioners often serve as the first point of contact, but referrals to specialists are common.

Innovation and research are vital pillars of the German healthcare system are innovation and research. The country is home to leading medical research institutions and pharmaceutical companies, driving advancements in medical technology and treatment options. This robust research environment helps maintain high standards of care and continuously improves the healthcare system.

Accessibility is another critical aspect of the German healthcare system. With about 4.4 doctors per 1,000 people—one of the highest ratios in the world—and well-distributed healthcare facilities, residents have easy access to medical services, contributing to better patient outcomes and satisfaction.

How to access the healthcare system in Germany as an expat

Step #1 - Register your residence

• Visit the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt) to register your address.
• Bring essential documents such as your passport, rental agreement, and a completed registration form.
• Receive a registration certificate (Anmeldebestätigung).

Step #2 - Obtain health insurance

• Statutory Health Insurance (GKV): If you are employed, you will typically be enrolled automatically. You can choose a statutory health insurance provider (Krankenkasse).
• Private Health Insurance (PKV): If you are self-employed, a freelancer, or earning above a certain income threshold, you may opt for private health insurance. Research and choose a private insurance provider that fits your needs.

Step #3 - Receive your health insurance card

• Once registered with a health insurance provider, you will receive a health insurance card (Krankenversicherungskarte).
• This card is essential for accessing medical services and should be kept with utmost care.

Step #4 - Find a general practitioner (GP)

• Register with a local GP (Hausarzt), who will be your primary point of contact for medical concerns.
• The GP can refer you to specialists if necessary.

Types of health insurance in Germany

Health insurance is mandatory for all residents in Germany and serves as the cornerstone of the German healthcare system. Below is a quick overview of the types available:

Public (Statutory) Health Insurance (GKV)

• Eligibility: Mandatory for employees earning below a certain threshold (€66,600 per year in 2024), students, pensioners, and unemployed individuals.
• Providers: Popular options are AOK, TK, Barmer, and DAK, among several others.
• Contributions: Based on income, employees pay around 14.6% of their gross salary (split between employer and employee). Additional contributions may apply depending on the insurer.
• Coverage: Includes doctor visits, hospital stays, dental care (with around 70% of dental care costs covered), prescriptions, maternity care, and preventive services.
• Family coverage: Eligible family members (spouse and children) can be included at no additional cost under certain conditions.

Private Health Insurance (PKV)

• Eligibility: Available to self-employed individuals, freelancers, civil servants, and employees earning above the threshold.
• Providers: Allianz, AXA, HanseMerkur, and others.
• Contributions: Based on health status, age, and coverage level. Generally. There are higher premiums compared to GKV (with starting rates around €200-€300 per month) but can offer more comprehensive coverage and faster access to specialists.
• Coverage: Similar to GKV but provides options for additional services, better hospital rooms, and more flexible plans.
• Family coverage: Family members need separate policies; coverage is not automatic, and premiums are individually calculated.

Supplementary Insurance (Zusatzversicherung)

• Supplementary insurance provides coverage for medical services and treatments not included in standard GKV or PKV plans, such as advanced dental work, private hospital rooms, and alternative therapies.

Approximately 90% of Germany’s population is covered by statutory health insurance, while the remaining 10% opt for private insurance, often due to higher income or specific personal preferences.

English-speaking doctors in Germany

Finding English-speaking doctors in Germany is relatively straightforward. Many hospitals and clinics, especially in larger cities such as Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg, have English-speaking staff. Some even have international departments specifically for non-German-speaking patients.

To find English-speaking doctors in Germany, you can:

• Ask for recommendations from friends, colleagues, or expat communities.
• Use online directories. Websites like Doctena, Jameda, and Arzt-Auskunft allow you to search for doctors by language, location, and specialty. Plus, these platforms often include patient reviews and ratings, which can help you choose a reputable healthcare provider.
• Contact your embassy or consulate. Embassies and consulates often have lists of recommended English-speaking healthcare providers. Check the website of your home country’s embassy in Germany or contact them directly for assistance.
• Check with health insurance providers. Both statutory and private health insurance companies may offer directories or customer service assistance to help you find English-speaking doctors within their network.

What to do in an emergency

If you have a medical emergency in Germany, dial 112. This number is free to call from any phone, including mobile phones.

Most emergency operators speak English, but it helps to speak slowly and clearly. If you can speak German, use it. Always carry your health insurance card for medical services. For non-life-threatening issues, visit the nearest hospital or doctor’s office.