Health insurance
The German medical system is excellent, however it is also
very expensive. Therefore if you plan to stay longer, adequate
health insurance is an absolute necessity.
Studying in Germany
If you particpate in a course at a local language school,
health insurance is generally optional. Many schools offer
an additional insurance package available for a moderate price.
Alternatively, you can always take out private travel and
health insurance in your home country before you arrive in
Germany.
Attending
university in Germany
Public health insurance is mandatory in order to attend university
in Germany. You will not be able to register for courses without
official proof that you have public health insurance.
Please contact the International students Office of your university
for more detailed information.
Working in Germany
If you are working in Germany, mandatory public health insurance
will be automatically deducted from your salary. It is also
possible to purchase private insurance to increase the coverage
of your insurance and to give you more options in terms of
choosing your doctor etc.
Medical
Emergency
Visiting a doctor
Generally, you will not have to pay for your visit in advance.
If you are a student or working fulltime in Germany, you will
probably have a public insurance card. If you are covered
by private travel or health insurance, you must pay via bank
transfer. Afterwards, you will hopefully be reimbursed by
your own insurance company (remember to keep the receipt!).
Not all treatments are covered by public or private insurance
policies. Check with the doctor and/or the insurance company.
In emergencies dial 112 for assistance.
Hospital treatment
If you are studying or working in Germany, treatment in hospitals
is free, except for a small contribution called a co-payment.
When travelling in Germany be sure to check with your insurance
company prior to departure about which treatments and emergencies
are covered by them.
Hospitals and physicians do not generally accept credit cards.
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