Healthcare in Germany

Health insurance is mandatory in Germany, in fact it is usually required to get a residence permit. Most Germans are insured under the national health insurance program which is usually paid for out of their salary and by their employer with one of several thousand state health insurance companies; half of the contributions are paid for by the employer, the rest is taken from their salary. There is no single national health insurance program, and coverage and prices are different depending on which company you are with.

Since the German health care system is heavily subsidized by the government, so healthcare expenses paid by the individual are relatively low for Germans and international workers alike. If you need health care in Germany, don't be afraid of the cost. It is very affordable.

The following websites have very helpful information about healthcare in Germany:

	Indepth articles about health insurance, medical care, dentists, doctors and having a baby in Germany.
	Current news & articles about healthcare in Germany and issues important to the Expat community.
	International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers. A free membership site that provides you with a membership card and gives you access to a list of English speaking doctors that charge standardized fees to members.

Basic Healthcare Needs

One of the most basic things you need to know is that to get basic first aid or over-the-counter medicines you must go to the Apotheke (ah-poh-tay-keh) which is the local pharmacy. You must communicate with the Pharmacist about your problem and they will provide you with the remedy. You cannot even buy a bandage without talking to the pharmacist first.

There is usually a pharmacist that knows "some" English - but go prepared! Use your phrase book to tell them where it hurts or what you need. Charade skills are a huge plus!

About.com has an English-German medical vocabulary list.

The Dresden Expats Ladies Lunch Bunch has an online list of English speaking doctors.

Lonely Planet has a useful links section for special needs health care.

Private Healthcare Insurance

To find private health care insurance you can look in the telephone book under Privatkrankenkasse. You can reduce your premiums by electing to pay minor medical expenses yourself. The links on the right are some insurance companies that specialize in Expatiate needs.

You should review the articles on these sites before making any decisions:

How To Germany: Overview of all of your insurance needs.

Expatica.com: Choosing the right policy