Switching from public to private health insurance in Germany

Getting health insurance coverage is not only an important first step when moving to Germany, it’s required. The German healthcare system is known to be one of the best in the world, offering numerous public and private insurance options. Many foreigners opt for public insurance, but sometimes private insurance is the smarter option. In this blog, we'll explore whether private insurance is the right choice for you and provide information on different private insurance options in Germany.

The Benefits of Private Insurance

German public healthcare is known for its affordability and comprehensive coverage. Further, obtaining a plan from a public provider is easy and quick. When moving to Germany, any pain-free to-do that can be checked off the list is appreciated! However, when considering healthcare needs long term and the many benefits of private insurance, private plans are sometimes the smarter choice for foreigners.

Private health insurance gives people the freedom of choice and self-empowerment. With private health insurance, individuals are free to choose their own doctor - and more often one who speaks their language - and can structure protection to fit individual lifestyle and health needs. Specific benefits can include:

• Full coverage for outpatient treatments - this can include regular general practitioners, alternative medicine, non-drug remedies (such as massages and osteopathy), medical aids, therapy and mental health support, visual aids (glasses, contacts)
• Better hospital care - choose the hospital and doctor you want, be placed in a single or double-bed room for overnight stays
• Dental care - full coverage for preventative dental treatment and inlay, prosthesis, and orthodontic treatments 
• Global coverage - trips home (or elsewhere!) are also covered, often with no restrictions 
• Extras (depending on provider) - cost reimbursement for recognized alternative medical treatments such as acupuncture, translation support in language of your choice if you fall ill abroad, coverage for second opinions in case of serious illness, legal advice in case of malpractice, personal support hotline

Weighing the Benefits of Private Insurance

When deciding whether private insurance is right for you, there are a few factors to consider. The first is employment status and salary. If you’re a freelancer or self-employed, private insurance may be mandatory, as the public health insurance system is reserved for employees. This means that private insurance may be the only option available to you. If you’re an employee at a German company, your salary (or salary plus other investments) must exceed 66,600 EUR – this income threshold changes annually.

The next consideration is your current health and age. In general, the younger you are and the fewer pre-existing conditions you have, the easier it is to get private insurance at a reasonable rate. 

Cost is, of course, a consideration when weighing whether private insurance is right for you. The amount you pay depends on several factors, including:

• Occupation
• Age
• Pre-existing medical conditions (you may have to submit to a medical examination)
• The healthcare plan you choose
• The deductible (Selbstbeteiligung) level you choose  
• General practitioner with referral or directly to the specialist

The average premium is around 400€ - 700€ per month (if you're a student, it will be significantly less). If you are employed full-time by a company, approximately 50% of your contributions will be covered by your employer - up to a maximum of approximately 403,99 euros per month in 2023. If you are self-employed, you cover the entire premium yourself. In comparison, the average maximum contribution of the public health insurances in 2023 is slightly over 800€.

Exploring the Different Types of Private Insurance in Germany

Private insurance in Germany is divided into two categories: basic and comprehensive insurance. Basic private insurance covers essential medical treatments, while comprehensive insurance covers a wider range of treatments and services, including dental and vision care. Some comprehensive health insurance plans also include travel insurance. When choosing private insurance, consider your budget and your healthcare needs to determine which type of insurance is best for you.

Maximizing Your Private Insurance Benefits in Germany

Once you have private insurance in Germany, it's important to understand what it covers and how to make the most of it. Many private insurance plans offer additional benefits, such as health and wellness programs and discounts on gym memberships. To maximize your benefits, be sure to read your insurance policy carefully and take advantage of any additional services provided by your insurance provider.

Conclusion

When moving to Germany, it's mandatory to have health insurance. Private insurance comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages for foreigners. By considering your healthcare needs and budget - along with your current health situation, age and plans for staying in Germany - you can determine whether private insurance is right for you. If you do choose private insurance, be sure to research your options and understand your policy to make the most of your benefits. 🔵

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