Information on German insurance_incl health 2019

DIFFERENT TYPES OF INSURANCE

Coverage provided

Hospitals stays, dental care, routine doctor visits, x-rays, recommended immunizations, in some cases: natural medicine are covered. In case you feel that the GKV coverage is not sufficient for you, private supplements are available as well. You may make an appointment with a general practitioner or dentist of your choice. Some doctors will require an appointment while others allow walk- ins. Note that some doctors might only offer services to privately health insured. The public health insurance only covers certain services. Non-covered services are called IGEL services. IGEL services must be paid for separately by you. The doctor / dentist must inform you of any extra costs before the treatment begins. AOK, BEK, BKK, DAK, TK – There are more than 140 providers in Germany. The services provided are determined by the government and are quite similar, though we suggest you check before you apply.

In general preferential treatment in hospitals (choice of hospital, room size, treatment by physician instead of an intern), and the possibility of additional services (such as natural medicine, acupuncture), depending on the portfolio of your health insurance. You may make an appointment at any doctor or dentist you wish. Some doctors will require an appointment first while others allow walk-ins. When you register at the doctor’s or dentist’s reception you might be required to show your health card, which will be scanned and returned to you. The doctor will send you an invoice that needs to be advanced by you. You will then have to hand it in at your insurance, in order to be reimbursed by them. Allianz, AXA, Barmenia, DKV, Gothaer, Hallesche e.g. – There are more than 60 providers in Germany. Due to the wide range of insurances tariffs you should ask for advice by an independent insurance broker before applying.

Choosing a doctor or dentist

Paying for doctor’s and dentist’s visit

Providers (examples)

NOTE : Once you have joined a private health insurance, you cannot change back to public health insurance. Switching from public to private insurance is possible after two months from date of cancellation. PERSONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE (PRIVAT-HAFTPFLICHTVERSICHERUNG) a) Car: An unlimited, third-party liability insurance policy is compulsory for all cars/motorized vehicles entering Germany. Safe drivers are rewarded by reductions of their premiums. In order to benefit from this, please provide a record of your insurance history from your insurance provider. b) Private: This insurance is optional, but highly recommended. Many landlords will demand proof of liability insurance before signing a lease contract, since it covers cases of liability for injury or damage to other persons or their property. Basic or standard coverage is €5-10 million against injury or damage and €50,000 against damage to a rented property. Some insurances offer special premiums for individuals. Not every aspect is covered by this type of insurance, so please check with your insurance provider regarding what fields are covered or not under the policy. c) If you have a dog, please be advised that dog liability insurance is strongly recommended.

© Dwellworks GmbH

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v. 2019