Germany's healthcare system, dating back to 1883, is one of the oldest and most comprehensive in the world, offering a wide range of services and options for both residents and expats.
Main Types of Health Insurance
Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung - GKV)
Eligibility: Almost everyone residing in Germany, including students, employees earning below €64,350 (as of 2021), and retirees are eligible for public health insurance.
Coverage: It provides a comprehensive range of healthcare services, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and even some alternative treatments.
Costs: Premiums are based on income, generally ranging from 14% to 16% of your gross income, with employers contributing about half of this percentage. For unemployed, students, or low-income earners, contributions are often adjusted, resulting in lower premiums.
Family Coverage: Family members can often be included at no extra cost under “family co-insurance” (Familienversicherung).
Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung - PKV)
Eligibility: Available to those earning above €64,350, self-employed individuals, freelancers, and under certain conditions, students.
Coverage: Offers customizable plans with a variety of coverage levels, often providing quicker access to specialists and more luxurious hospital stays.
Costs: Premiums are calculated based on a risk assessment including age, gender, and pre-existing medical conditions. These plans may have deductibles and co-payments, meaning a portion of medical expenses may be paid out-of-pocket.
Family Coverage: Each family member typically needs a separate policy, often resulting in higher total premiums.
Registration and Application Process
The process of registration or application for health insurance can vary depending on the type of insurance - statutory or private. Here is a general overview of the steps:
Statutory Health Insurance (GKV)
Employees: Upon employment, one is usually automatically registered with the statutory health insurance. The employer registers the employee with a health insurance fund, often the employee can choose a preferred fund. The contribution is deducted directly from the salary.
Self-Employed and Freelancers: Must register themselves with a statutory health insurance fund. They choose a health insurance fund and submit an application, either online or in person. The contributions are based on income and must be paid by themselves.
Students: Students under 30 years of age can insure themselves at a discounted rate. Registration is done directly with the health insurance fund.
Job Seekers: Those who are unemployed and receiving unemployment benefits are insured through the Federal Employment Agency.
Private Health Insurance (PKV)
Application Process: One must apply to a private health insurance company. This usually involves filling out a health questionnaire.
Health Examination: The insurance may require a medical examination or health check.
Insurance Selection: One chooses a tariff that suits personal needs and budget.
Contract Conclusion: After acceptance of the application and agreement on the tariff, the contract is concluded.
General Notes
EU Citizens and EEA Citizens: Persons from EU/EEA countries may be able to maintain their existing health insurance.
Outside the EU: Persons from non-EU countries generally have to take out German health insurance.
Emergency Services
Access: In emergencies, dial 112 for medical emergencies or 116 117 for non-emergency medical assistance. Severe emergencies should be directed to the nearest hospital emergency room (‘Notaufnahme’).
Costs: Under public insurance, emergency treatment costs are usually covered with a nominal fee. Private insurance often covers emergency treatment as well, but specifics depend on the individual plan.
FAQs
Is health insurance mandatory for all expatriates in Germany?
Yes, every resident, including expatriates, must have health insurance, either public or private, as per German law.
How does public health insurance work for families?
Public insurance often allows including family members at no extra cost. Spouses and children without income above a specific threshold are eligible.
What are the cost implications of private health insurance?
Private insurance premiums are based on risk factors like age and health, and each family member usually requires a separate policy, potentially increasing costs.
What should I do in a medical emergency?
Dial 112 for emergencies. If insured under public health insurance, costs are usually covered with a nominal fee; private insurance coverage varies by plan.
Key Takeaway
The German healthcare system offers well-established legal requirements for health insurance, catering to a wide range of residents including expatriates. Its comprehensive network ensures accessible and affordable healthcare services, with options for both public and private insurance tailored to different needs and financial situations.
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