Healthcare System in Germany: everything you need to know

How does the German healthcare system work?

Germany has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. Citizens and residents can choose between three systems. The universal public system (GKV) is the one most people choose. It is financed through employees and employers, and the cost is determined by income level. Within the system there are 100 different "Krankenkassen", or insurance companies which are responsible for administering health care, offering different plans, which vary depending on the type of coverage. They also vary in the amount of coverage they offer for dental, vision and alternative medicine.

The other system is for self-employed individuals (KSK), artists, writers, journalists or freelance musicians who must pay half price for health services. Self- employed individuals can also choose a private health insurance plan.

There is also a private system (PKV), which offers broader coverage with reduced waiting times. However, in order to enroll, the individual must have a salary of more than €57,600 per year due to the high cost of this service. This system only allows coverage for one individual, unlike the public system in which the whole family can be enrolled at the same time at no additional cost.

How does the system work for foreigners?

To access health services in Germany as a tourist, you must have an independent health insurance. If you are going to reside in the country for a longer period of time, it is mandatory to have health insurance in order to apply for a visa.

Once in the country you have access to the local system, either public or private. However, for the private system you must meet the requirements described above, therefore it is more common for temporary residents to be affiliated to the public system. Certain private insurance companies offer special packages for students or temporary residents who wish to have the benefits such as reduced attention times and the option to be treated by specialists of their choice.

If you need health insurance to apply for your visa in Germany, you hire international health insurance with coverage in Germany. To compare, quote and hire the best international health insurance, go to InternationalHealth.com. 
 

What should I do if I have an emergency in Germany?

The emergency hotline in Germany is 112, both for medical assistance and for the fire department. If you need to contact the police, you should dial 110.

If you require non-emergency medical assistance, you can dial 116 117, which is available 24 hours a day nationwide.

How do pharmacies operate in Germany?

Pharmacies in Germany are called "Apotheke", and can be recognized by a large red letter A on the outside.

For those affiliated in the public insurance, medicines are part of the coverage, however they must pay a voucher of approximately 5-10 Euros. This is as long as the medicine has been prescribed by a local doctor.

Members of the private system, who are given the prescription on blue paper, must pay for the medication in full at the pharmacy and then request a reimbursement from their insurer. 

Entry Requirements

There are currently no restrictions to enter Germany for tourism, study or residence. Regardless of your vaccination status, anyone who meets the visa requirements can enter the country.