Navigating healthcare
Know your rights for appointments, emergencies and reimbursement in Germany.
[missing:knowledge.updated]: 30.09.2025 · [missing:knowledge.source]: https://echo-doneo24.com/wissen/gesundheit
Medical appointments
Statutory insured patients are entitled to timely appointments.
- Family doctors must see acute cases quickly. If you wait more than four weeks, call the nationwide booking hotline 116117.
- Many specialists can be booked directly; a referral often speeds up access but is not always required.
- Doctors must explain diagnosis, treatment options and risks in plain language (German Civil Code § 630e).
If German is not your first language, ask for interpreting support – insurers decide on coverage.
Emergencies
Dial 112 for life-threatening symptoms – insurance status is clarified afterwards.
- Ambulance services cannot refuse transport because documents are missing; personal details can be provided later.
- Call 116117 for urgent care outside office hours when it is not life-threatening.
- Hospitals must treat emergencies without upfront payment (German Criminal Code § 323c).
Write down symptoms and times – helpful if you need to appeal reimbursement decisions.
Co-payments
Co-payments are capped once you reach the legal hardship limit.
- Ten percent per prescription for medication, remedies or aids – capped at 10 EUR per item.
- Chronically ill patients can apply for a 1 % income cap. Keep receipts and submit them to your insurer.
- File an objection within one month if a treatment is denied and add a medical justification.
Special hardship rules also apply to dental prostheses – keep your bonus booklet up to date.