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Healthcare Guide for Digital Nomads and Remote Workers in Germany | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Main train station in Frankfurt, Germany

Healthcare & Health Insurance in Germany

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Digital Nomads in Germany share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Germany, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.

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What are healthcare services like in 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," wrote one digital nomad living in Germany.

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What is the quality of medical care 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," said one foreigner in Germany.

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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," remarked one member in Germany.

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," explained one digital nomad living in Germany.

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," said one foreigner in Germany.

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," explained one digital nomad living in Germany.

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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 member in Germany.

"In Dusseldorf, public hospitals offer emergency treatment as well. Private clinics are affordable only with private insurance. Costs are still cheaper than US," explained 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," remarked one member 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 one member 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," explained one expat in Germany.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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.

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Main train station in Frankfurt, Germany

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AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote

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AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
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Contribute to Germany Network Contribute
Help others in Germany by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Germany.

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