Health insurance
All the essential news and information about health insurance in Germany.
What does public health insurance really cover at the dentist in Germany?
A recent proposal to exclude dental care from public health insurance coverage in Germany was met with significant backlash. But exactly how much does statutory insurance cover at the dentist anyway?
How to switch German health insurance providers and save money
As roughly half of statutory health insurance companies in Germany raise their rates, we look at what you have to do to switch providers and at what you could potentially save.
German insurance companies announce contribution hike in the new year
Major statutory health insurance companies in Germany have confirmed that members will see their contributions rise from the start of 2026, despite previous government promises to stabilise those costs.
Fees for doctors' appointments? Germany's proposals for reforming healthcare
Proposed reforms to Germany’s health system are being debated, with the introduction of a 'base health insurance tariff' and the possibility of charging fees for visits to the doctor among the most hotly contested ideas.
EXPLAINED: How health insurance works for children in Germany
Everyone in Germany needs health insurance but how do the rules work for children? We look at what parents have to do to ensure their children are covered and check out the pros and cons of statutory versus private coverage.
EXPLAINED: What are my options for private health insurance in Germany?
Health insurance is mandatory for everyone living in Germany, so it's important to choose the best option for you.
When is it worth buying supplementary dental insurance in Germany?
Dental care can be expensive in Germany, especially for treatments that are not fully covered by standard health insurance plans. So when is it worth buying supplementary dental insurance?
German health insurance boss warns of 'massive' contributions hike
The head of a German health insurance firm has warned that the new coalition agreement between the CDU/CSU and SPD will lead to 'a massive increase' in statutory health insurance contributions by 2026 at the latest.
Do patients in Germany with private health insurance get priority appointments?
Patients in Germany sometimes complain about long waits to see the doctor, especially for specialist care. Some have suggested that doctors prioritise privately insured patients. A new motion may see the government step in.
Do all foreigners in Germany have access to free healthcare?
Among travellers and recent immigrants there can be confusion regarding public healthcare in Germany, and if those who aren't officially residents can get free treatment. Here’s what you need to know.
EXPLAINED: How German parties want to end soaring social contributions
With recent increases to health and care insurance, workers in Germany are giving away more of their salary for social contributions than ever before. Here's what's happening - and how political parties are pledging to solve the problem.
How to take a German wellness retreat for burnt-out parents
Parents in Germany suffering from stress or burn-out are entitled to take a “Kur”, which is basically a month-long wellness retreat for themselves and their children. Here’s how it works.
How to save money on health insurance by switching providers in Germany
Millions of insured people have found themselves paying more in Germany this year as a number of companies increased their premiums. When is it worth changing your provider?
Why long-term care insurance fees are likely to rise in Germany next year
Social contributions could be set to rise yet again in Germany with a potential hike in the cost of long-term care insurance. Here's what you need to know.
How to find available therapists in Germany
It’s no secret that mental health care can be particularly tricky to access in Germany. Here are some helpful tips for anyone who is struggling to book an appointment for therapy.
Can privately insured people use e-prescriptions in Germany?
Since January, electronic prescriptions have become mandatory for patients in Germany. But what does that mean for people who are privately insured?
How German health insurance costs are set to rise from 2024
The cost of statutory insurance will rise for millions of patients next year, the German Health Minister has announced.
German health insurance contributions 'to rise in 2024'
German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach (SPD) has said people will have to pay more for their health insurance in 2024 in order to plug financial gaps in the ailing health service.
Could it soon get harder to get private health insurance in Germany?
According to reports in German media, the Social Democrats (SPD) and Greens want to make it harder for high earners to switch to private health insurance. Here's what you need to know.
Germany scraps law allowing workers to get sick notes over the phone
From Friday, people will no longer be able to get sick notes over the phone in Germany as a rule brought in during the pandemic comes to an end.
Will health insurance costs go up again in Germany?
German statutory health insurance funds are facing a historic deficit this year. Will people soon have to shell out more of their income for coverage?
Cost of German care insurance could rise in July
To combat the steep cost of care, the German Health Ministry is planning to increase monthly contributions to the care insurance fund, according to media reports.
10 funny German medical words every expat should know
German is a tricky language to begin with, but things get really mind boggling when you need to see a doctor.