Your Family Doctor in Germany: The Hausarzt Explained #

Living in Germany means learning some new systems and one of the most important is how healthcare works. At the center of it all is your Hausarzt, your trusted go-to doctor for almost everything.

What is a Hausarzt (General Practitioner)? #

A Hausarzt is your primary care doctor in Germany. They are your first point of contact for most health-related concerns and play a central role in your healthcare journey. Your Hausarzt is the doctor you go to first for:

• General Health Issues: Treatment for common ailments like colds, flu, and minor injuries
• Health Check-Ups: Routine examinations to monitor your overall health
• Vaccinations: Administration of vaccines, including flu shots and others
• Referrals to Specialists: If specialized care is needed, your Hausarzt will refer you to the appropriate specialist
• Sick Notes (Krankschreibung): Documentation required for employers or educational institutions when you’re unwell

They are your main partner in staying healthy in Germany. Think of them like a family doctor who knows your history and can guide you through the health system.

Health Insurance and Your Hausarzt #

In Germany, health insurance is mandatory. There are two main types:

• Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung): Covers most medical services. When visiting your Hausarzt, present your Gesundheitskarte (health insurance card)
• Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung): Offers a broader range of services and faster appointments but may require upfront payments

Your Hausarzt will bill your insurance directly for covered services. For certain procedures or medications, you might need to pay a small co-payment.

Finding an English-Speaking Hausarzt #

If you are more comfortable communicating in English, here are some resources to find English-speaking doctors:

• Doctolib: Filter by language and specialty
• Jameda: Search for doctors by location and language
• Doctena: Online booking system especially popular for specialists. Good for booking without calling
• Ärzte Berlin: A Berlin-specific directory of registered doctors. You can filter by language, specialty, and area
• 116117.de: Official public health portal. You can book non-emergency doctor appointments and get medical help, especially outside regular hours. Also works by calling 116117 (free hotline)

Additionally, some health insurance providers, like Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), maintain lists of English-speaking doctors and can assist in booking appointments.

Booking an Appointment #

• Online: Use platforms like Doctolib or Jameda to book appointments
• Phone: Call the practice directly. If language is a barrier, consider asking a German-speaking friend to assist
• Walk-In: Some practices offer walk-in hours, but it’s best to check in advance

Remember to bring your Gesundheitskarte to every appointment.

Tips for a Smooth Experience #

• Stick with One Hausarzt: Building a relationship with a single doctor ensures continuity of care
• Keep Records: Maintain a personal health record, including medications and past treatments