Healthcare in Germany: How to Find English-Speaking Doctors & Urgent Medical Help Fast

An in-depth guide to healthcare in Germany for travelers, from pharmacy runs to emergencies – everything you need to know.

Germany is home to one of the world’s best healthcare systems, offering high-quality medical care to both residents and visitors. Whether you are in Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, or Hamburg, knowing how to access medical assistance quickly will give you peace of mind during your trip.

Quick Summary: How to Get Medical Help in Germany

• Emergency? Dial 112 for immediate assistance.

• Need a Doctor? Use TravelDoctor EU for fast online consultations.

• Pharmacies: Look for Apotheke signs; 24-hour options are available in major cities.

• Travel Insurance? EU citizens can use their EHIC card, while non-EU visitors should have private travel insurance.

Understanding the German Healthcare System

Germany operates under a dual public-private healthcare system, ensuring universal coverage for its residents. However, tourists and short-term visitors are required to rely on private insurance or pay for medical services upfront before claiming reimbursement through their provider.

Public Healthcare (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung - GKV)

• Covers 90% of German residents and is funded through employer and employee contributions.

• EU travelers can use their EHIC card to access emergency treatment.

• Non-EU travelers must have private insurance or be prepared to cover medical costs out of pocket.

Private Healthcare (Private Krankenversicherung - PKV)

• Provides faster access to doctors and specialists and often offers broader coverage.

• Available for high earners, self-employed individuals, and non-EU travelers.

• Insurance premiums vary based on age, coverage, and pre-existing conditions.

Emergency Numbers and Accessing Services

• Dial 112 for police, ambulance, or fire emergencies.

• Dial 116 117 for after-hours GP services and urgent care clinics.

• Multi-lingual emergency operators are available when calling 112.

Finding English-Speaking Doctors in Germany

While many doctors in Germany speak English, it may be more difficult to find one outside of tourist-heavy areas. For quick access to English-speaking medical professionals, use:

• TravelDoctor EU for virtual consultations and in-person visits.

• Learn key German phrases for medical emergencies:

  • "I need a doctor." – Ich brauche einen Arzt.

  • "Where is the nearest pharmacy?" – Wo ist die nächste Apotheke?

Pharmacies in Germany: Where to Go

• Pharmacies (Apotheke) are widely available and easily recognizable by their red letter 'A' sign.

• Opening Hours: Most pharmacies operate 9 AM – 6 PM (Monday–Friday), with limited Saturday hours.

• 24-Hour Pharmacies: Available in larger cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich.

Cost of Healthcare in Germany

• General Practitioner (GP) Consultation: €30 – €80 per visit.

• Hospital Stay: €100 – €500 per day (without insurance).

• Prescription Medication: €10 – €50 per prescription.

• Accepted Payments: Credit cards, bank transfer, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and cash.

Seeing a Specialist in Germany

• No Referral Required: Patients can see specialists directly without first visiting a GP.

• Common Specialties Available: Dermatology, gynecology, cardiology, orthopedics, and ophthalmology.

• How to Book an Appointment: Appointments can typically be booked by phone, online, or through a medical app.

Dental & Pediatric Care in Germany

• Dentists: Private dental care is widely available, with emergency 24/7 dental clinics in major cities (Notdienst Zahnarzt).

• Pediatricians: Children’s healthcare is fully covered under the public system.

• Emergency Dental Care: Available for urgent dental issues, particularly in urban areas.

Hospitals in Germany

Germany has world-class hospitals that provide specialized treatment and advanced medical technology.

Top Hospitals by City:

• Berlin: Charité - Universitätsmedizin, Vivantes Klinikum.

• Munich: Klinikum der Universität München, Asklepios Klinik.

• Frankfurt: Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Bürgerhospital.

• Hamburg: UKE Hamburg-Eppendorf, Asklepios Klinik Altona.

Emergency & After-Hours Healthcare

• Dial 112 for life-threatening emergencies.

• Visit a Notaufnahme (ER) for urgent but non-life-threatening medical issues.

• Hospital emergency rooms are available nationwide, but longer wait times may be expected for non-urgent cases.

Steps to Take If You Get Sick in Germany

1. Visit a Pharmacy: Pharmacists can provide guidance on minor illnesses and over-the-counter medication.

2. See a Doctor: Use TravelDoctor EU for an immediate consultation.

3. Know Emergency Numbers: Call 112 or visit a Notaufnahme for severe medical cases.

4. Contact Your Insurer: Keep receipts for insurance claims and reimbursement.

5. Go to a Hospital: Only for serious medical conditions, as many specialists require referrals or prior appointments.

With this guide, you can navigate Germany’s healthcare system with confidence, knowing that high-quality medical care is available whenever you need it.