Doctor's Visit — Visiting a Doctor in Germany

How to Book an Appointment

In Germany, the foundation is the Hausarzt (family doctor) — your first contact for most health issues. Steps:
1. choose a Hausarzt in your area (you don't need an Überweisung for them or a pediatrician),
2. book a Termin by phone or through an app (Doctolib, Jameda, 116117),
3. bring your Versichertenkarte (eGK) — without it you'll pay privately,
4. to see a specialist (Facharzt) you usually need an Überweisung from your Hausarzt — exceptions are ophthalmologists and gynecologists.

The system covering your visit is described in Health Insurance (Krankenversicherung).

Terminservicestelle — When There's No Appointment Available

If you can't get an appointment, call 116117 (Terminservicestelle) or visit 116117-termine.de. With an Überweisung, you have the right to see a specialist within 4 weeks. The same number 116117 also provides evening and weekend medical on-call services (ärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst). In case of life-threatening emergency, call 112 or go to Emergency Room (Notaufnahme).

Card, Costs and Language

If you don't have your Versichertenkarte with you, the practice will issue a private bill — you typically have until the end of the quarter to bring your card and reclaim the money. You can bring a translator to your appointment; some practices accept English. Many doctors offer a coordinated care program (Hausarztprogramm), which organizes referrals and treatment.

After Your Visit

Your doctor may issue a prescription (Rezept) for medication — you fill it at a pharmacy (Apotheke). If you're unable to work, you receive a sick note (Krankschreibung), which your insurance company and employer now receive electronically (eAU).