What this is about
In Germany, your first point of contact is usually a GP practice (Hausarztpraxis). They either treat you themselves or refer you to a specialist.
- Find a GP practice near you, ideally before you get sick.
- A referral (Überweisung) is common for many specialist appointments.
- You usually book appointments by phone or online.
What to bring
Without your insurance card the practice can still treat you, but they'll often ask for confirmation from your health insurer.
- Your electronic health insurance card (Gesundheitskarte)
- ID card or passport
- A list of your medications and previous findings, if you have them
Finding a practice
The official doctor search helps you find practices near you.
- Ask the practice whether they're taking new patients.
- Some practices speak Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian or Macedonian.
- If you're unsure, bring someone along to translate.
Outside opening hours
Not every complaint is an emergency. What matters is calling the right number.
- 112: life-threatening emergency, for example severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a serious accident.
- 116117: medical on-call service (ärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst) in the evening, on weekends and public holidays.
- The hospital emergency room is for real emergencies, not for regular appointments.
Concrete steps
- 1Look for a GP practice nearby.
- 2Call and book an appointment.
- 3Bring your health insurance card and ID.
- 4Outside opening hours call 116117, in an emergency call 112.
Terms on this page
Tap a word. The terms stay in German so you recognise them in letters and forms.
This is orientation, not legal advice. Please check the details at the official source.
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