The German healthcare system is excellent and confusing in equal measure. Knowing how to navigate it before you are actually ill saves you a lot of misery. Here is the practical map.
First, your insurance is your key
You cannot really use the system without health insurance, which is mandatory, see the insurance guide and what is covered. With public insurance (TK, AOK, Barmer, etc.) you show your insurance card at the practice and most care is covered directly.
The Hausarzt is your front door
- Your Hausarzt (general practitioner) is your first stop for almost everything and refers you to specialists (Facharzt) when needed.
- Register with one near you early, do not wait until you are sick. Some are not taking new patients, so it can take a few tries.
- For specialists (dermatologist, gynaecologist, etc.) you often book directly, but a Hausarzt referral helps.
Booking a Termin (appointment)
Pharmacies (Apotheke)
- Prescription medicines come only from an Apotheke (green cross sign), not the supermarket.
- Bring your prescription (often now a digital e-prescription linked to your insurance card).
- Pharmacists give solid advice for minor issues, useful when you cannot get a quick Termin.
- Notdienst-Apotheke: pharmacies rotate an on-call night/weekend service; the nearest one is posted on any pharmacy door or findable online.
Emergencies and out-of-hours
| Situation | Number / where |
|---|---|
| Life-threatening emergency | 112 (ambulance/fire), free |
| Police | 110 |
| Urgent but not life-threatening, out of hours | 116117 (medical on-call service) |
| Serious injury needing hospital | Hospital A&E (Notaufnahme) |
Practical tips
- Keep your insurance card and a list of any medication on your phone.
- Learn a few German health words even if the doctor speaks English, see basic German words.
- Get a sick note (Krankschreibung) from your Hausarzt if you cannot work or attend, employers and universities require it.
- If you are struggling emotionally, that is healthcare too, see mental health support.
FAQ
Can I just walk into a doctor in Germany?
Usually no, you book a Termin (appointment) first. For urgent out-of-hours care, call 116117; for emergencies, 112.
Where do I get medicine?
From an Apotheke (pharmacy) with a prescription. Pharmacists also advise on minor ailments.
What is the difference between 112 and 116117?
112 is for life-threatening emergencies. 116117 is the on-call service for urgent but non-emergency medical needs, especially nights and weekends.
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