German health care: Everything you need for your move to Germany | KOCH Moving Logistics

Germany is not only known as an economically strong nation, but also for its outstanding healthcare system. Whoever Moving to Germany plans, will quickly realize that the healthcare system here is one of the best in the world. But how exactly does it work? What insurance options are available and what should emigrants be prepared for? KOCH Moving Logistics will not only help you with the Move internationalbut also gives you valuable tips for your start in Germany.

The German healthcare system is based on two pillars: statutory and private health insurance. The majority of the population is covered by statutory health insurance, which means that contributions depend on income. However, anyone earning above a certain income threshold or who is self-employed can take out private insurance. Private health insurance often offers faster medical appointments and additional benefits, but is generally more expensive.

If you are planning to move to Germany, you should find out about your insurance options early on. After all, choosing the right health insurance can have a significant impact on your medical care and your finances in the long term.

Another feature of German healthcare is the so-called GP principle. In many cases, the family doctor is the first port of call before you can see a specialist. This means that you need to see your GP for an initial examination, who will then refer you to a specialist if necessary. This helps to make the healthcare system more efficient and avoid unnecessary costs.

As a newcomer to Germany, you should look for a GP in your area as early as possible. Especially in larger cities, it can happen that GP practices are already fully booked - so early registration can be an advantage.

Another important detail for anyone planning to move to Germany is how to deal with medication. Many medicines that are freely available in other countries are only available on prescription in Germany. This includes not only strong painkillers, but also many common medicines such as antibiotics or certain cold remedies.

Anyone who is regularly dependent on medication should therefore find out about the German pharmacy requirements at an early stage and speak to a doctor. This is particularly important for expats, as they may have to get used to new procedures.

Emergency care: rapid assistance in an emergency

In Germany, emergency care is guaranteed by a dense network of rescue services and emergency rooms. In life-threatening situations, dial the emergency number 112, which is valid throughout Europe. For less urgent medical matters outside regular consultation hours, the medical on-call service is available on 116117.

Prevention services: Maintaining and promoting health

The statutory health insurance funds offer numerous prevention programs to prevent illness and promote health. These include courses on exercise, nutrition, stress management and addiction prevention. Many of these programs are financially supported or fully covered.

When you move to Germany, choosing the right health insurance company is an important step. Here are some of the largest statutory health insurance companies:

• Techniker Krankenkasse (TK): The largest health insurance company in Germany with around 11.7 million policyholders.

• BARMER: Serves around 8.5 million insured persons.

• DAK-Gesundheit: Has around 5.5 million insured persons.

• AOK Plus: Supplies around 3.5 million people in Saxony and Thuringia.

• AOK Niedersachsen: With almost 3 million insured persons.

These figures are based on data from Statista from 2024.

Germany has numerous hospitals that are operated by various organizations. The largest include:

• HELIOS Kliniken GmbH: Based in Berlin, HELIOS operates 122 clinics with a total of 28,492 beds and treats over 2.3 million outpatients annually.

• Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin: Charité is one of the best-known hospitals in Europe with 3,011 beds and is a municipal institution in Berlin.

• Klinikum Region Hannover GmbH: Operates 11 clinics with a total of 2,973 beds in Lower Saxony.

These facilities play a central role in medical care and research in Germany.

Moving to a new country is always associated with many challenges - and not just in terms of the healthcare system. A move to Germany should be well organized to avoid stress and make the start of a new life as pleasant as possible. KOCH Moving Logistics is your experienced partner for a safe and smooth international move.

Our services include:

• Individual advice and planning for your move

• Professional transportation of your household goods

• Support with customs and entry formalities

• Storage and assembly service

Let us plan your move to Germany together! Contact us today and start your new life worry-free.

I would be happy to expand the information on German healthcare and introduce you to the largest health insurance companies and hospital operators.