The German health system is globally respected for its people-oriented approach and high quality services. The system is financed through social insurance, similar to the system in the rest of European Union.
The basis of financing consists of income earned by individuals and premiums paid by employers. The health and social insurance system in Germany has a history dating back to the 1880s. This system was initiated by the then Chancellor Otto Von Bismarck.
Bismarck primarily aimed to establish a social policy to improve the working and health conditions of workers. In the 1880s, the government under Bismarck’s leadership developed various insurances such as health, accident and disability insurance and this system, known as the Bismarck method, entered the literature.
Health care in Germany
Germany, one of the countries with a high standard of living and average life expectancy, is among the developed countries according to OECD reports by making significant investments in health expenditures.
The large health expenditures in Germany have resulted in a health system that ranked 12th in the Euro Health Consumer Index (EHCI) in 2018. The health care system in Germany is based on a social and comprehensive basis, in line with international standards and based on equal rights.
The German health care system includes practices that aim to protect people’s quality of life, provide solutions to problems and avoid victimizing the public. German health policy, developed by the Federal Ministry of Health and regulated by the Federal Joint Committee, is financed by statutory contributions.
Anyone who is enrolled in the state health insurance can benefit from German health services. Otherwise, there are many alternatives such as private health insurance.
Public and private insurance in Germany
The health system in Germany is financed by social insurance. This system is based on contributions from employees’ salaries and employers. In addition, people who earn more than a certain monthly income pay insurance contributions. Every working adult in Germany is obliged to take out compulsory health insurance (Krankenkassen).
In addition, accidents, unemployment, nursing care and retirement are also covered by social insurance through premiums and contributions.
Public health insurance covers many services such as medical examinations, medical treatments, basic dental care, pregnancy and childbirth. However, people who want more comprehensive coverage and are in a good financial situation can take advantage of private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung).
When it comes to the question of which channels you can use to get insurance in Germany, it can be difficult for newcomers to know and compare insurance companies and policy details, especially for those who do not speak German.
Therefore, if you want to get insurance in Germany, it may be a good option to find English-speaking insurance agents or consultants and benefit from their guidance.
What about the channels through which you can get your insurance in Germany? If you have recently moved to Germany, it will be quite difficult to know and compare insurance companies and policy details, especially if you do not speak German.
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