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Getting around the healthcare landscape in Germany involves understanding how to access various medical services, including hospitals, clinics, and general practitioners. Whether it’s routine check-ups, specialist care, or emergency services, knowing the right procedures and contact points is crucial for expats. This article provides guidance on how to find and access medical care in Germany.
General Practitioners (Hausarzt)
The general practitioner (GP), or ‘Hausarzt’, is usually the first point of contact for most medical concerns in Germany. GPs provide primary care, including diagnosis, treatment, preventative care, and referrals to specialists when necessary. To find a GP, you can ask for recommendations from friends or colleagues, check online directories, or use the ‘Arztsuche’ function on the websites of local health insurance associations.
Registering with a General Practitioner
Once you find a GP, you will need to register with them by presenting your health insurance card. It’s advisable to find a GP soon after arriving in Germany, as they play a central role in navigating the healthcare system. Some GPs speak English, which can be particularly helpful for expats who are not fluent in German.
Specialist Doctors
For specialized medical care, you generally need a referral from your GP. However, in the public health system, you have the freedom to choose your specialists. Specialist doctors in Germany include cardiologists, gynecologists, pediatricians, orthopedists, and more. Like GPs, specialists can be found through recommendations or online directories.
Hospitals and Clinics
Germany has a wide network of hospitals (‘Krankenhäuser’) and clinics (‘Kliniken’) that provide inpatient and outpatient services. Hospitals in Germany are well-equipped and staffed with highly qualified medical professionals. In non-emergency situations, a referral from a GP is usually required to receive treatment at a hospital.
Emergency Care
In emergency situations, you can go directly to a hospital emergency room (‘Notaufnahme’) or call the emergency number 112 for immediate medical assistance. For less urgent medical issues outside of regular office hours, you can call the non-emergency medical service number 116 117. This service can guide you to the nearest on-call doctor or medical facility.
Pharmacies (Apotheken)
Pharmacies in Germany are the places to obtain prescription medications and seek advice for minor health issues. They are easily identifiable by a red ‘A’ sign. Many pharmacists speak English and can provide information about medication usage and side effects.
Making Appointments (Termine)
For both GPs and specialists, it’s usually necessary to make an appointment. Waiting times can vary depending on the doctor’s schedule and the urgency of the situation. In non-urgent cases, there might be a waiting period for an appointment, especially with popular or highly specialized doctors.
Language Considerations
While many healthcare professionals in Germany speak English, especially in urban areas, it’s not guaranteed. If you’re not confident in your German language skills, it might be helpful to bring a German-speaking friend or use a translation app during medical appointments.
Finding and accessing medical care in Germany is a straightforward process once you’re familiar with the system. Registering with a GP, understanding how to access specialist care, knowing the procedures for emergency situations, and navigating pharmacies are key components. With the right information and some planning, expats can efficiently navigate the German healthcare system and access the medical care they need.
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