You’ve received your coveted health insurance card (Gesundheitskarte) and taken an important step towards security in Germany. But then you wake up with a sore throat or need a routine check-up, and the question arises: where to go? To the nearest clinic? To the hospital? The healthcare system in Germany works differently. Don’t worry, this guide will help you figure it all out.
Your Main Ally — Hausarzt (Family Doctor)
The first and most important doctor you need to find is the Hausarzt. This can be a general practitioner (Allgemeinmediziner) or an internist (Internist). He is your main dispatcher in the world of German medicine. It is to him that you will turn with most problems: from a cold to back pain and obtaining a sick note (Krankschreibung).
Key principle: If you need a specialist (ophthalmologist, neurologist, orthopedist), your Hausarzt will give you a referral — Überweisung. Without it, it can be more difficult, and sometimes impossible, to get an appointment with a specialist.
How to Find “Your” Doctor?
Finding a doctor, especially one who accepts new patients, can require patience. Be persistent!
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Online Portals: The most convenient way.
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Doctolib.de: Allows you not only to find a doctor but also to book an appointment online immediately, which is ideal with a language barrier.
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Jameda.de: Helps you find doctors and read patient reviews about them.
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Google Maps: Simply type “Hausarzt” or “Allgemeinmedizin” into the search bar, and you will see practices (Praxis) near you.
Important filters when searching: Look for the label “Nimmt neue Patienten auf” (Accepts new patients) and make sure the doctor works with public insurance (“Gesetzlich versichert” or “Alle Kassen”).
How to Make an Appointment (einen Termin vereinbaren)
Method 1: Online (Recommended)
On the Doctolib website, you can see the doctor’s available slots and simply choose a suitable one. No calls, no stress. This is the easiest way to start.
Method 2: By Phone (For the Brave)
If online booking is not available, you’ll have to call. Don’t be afraid! This simple script will help you:
You: “Guten Tag, mein Name ist [Your First and Last Name]. Ich möchte einen Termin vereinbaren.” (Good day, my name is… I would like to make an appointment.)
The practice staff will likely ask: “Sind Sie schon Patient bei uns?” (Are you already a patient with us?)
You: “Nein, ich bin ein neuer Patient.” (No, I am a new patient.)
Next, briefly describe the problem: “Ich habe Halsschmerzen” (I have a sore throat) / “Ich brauche eine Untersuchung” (I need a check-up).
Important: If you cannot make it to your appointment, be sure to cancel it (Termin absagen) at least 24 hours in advance. Some practices may charge for no-shows without notice.
When There’s No Time to Wait: Emergencies
What to do if you feel sick right now? Remember these options.
| Situation | Your Action | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| Sudden but not life-threatening illness (flu, high fever) | Call your Hausarzt and ask about Akutsprechstunde. | “Acute cases hours.” An appointment on the same day on a first-come, first-served basis. |
| Feeling unwell on a weekend, at night, or your doctor is unavailable | Call 116 117 | Medical on-call service (Ärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst). They will tell you where to go or send a doctor to your home. |
| Serious injuries, suspected heart attack/stroke, severe bleeding | Go/drive to the Notaufnahme of the nearest hospital (Krankenhaus). | Emergency room. Be prepared for a long wait if your case is not the most severe. |
| LIFE-THREATENING: loss of consciousness, serious car accident, severe shortness of breath | Call 112 | Ambulance service (Rettungsdienst). Only for life-threatening situations! |
What to Bring to Your First Appointment?
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Your electronic health card (elektronische Gesundheitskarte - eGK). This is the most important thing.
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Passport or ID document (just in case).
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A list of medications you are taking.
At the reception desk (Anmeldung), you will be asked to present your card and possibly fill out a new patient questionnaire (Anamnesebogen). After that, you will be asked to wait in the waiting room (Wartezimmer).
Conclusion
The German healthcare system may seem complex, but it is reliable. Your first step is to find a family doctor (Hausarzt), who will become your guide. Use online services to book appointments, don’t be afraid to call with our simple script, and know where to turn in emergencies. Your health is in good hands!