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Medical Emergencies

Information on accessing emergency medical care, including hospitals, ambulance services, and pharmacies open 24/7.

Sections

1. Emergency Numbers in Germany

Germany has a centralized emergency response system. The key emergency numbers are:

  • 112: For medical emergencies, fire, and rescue services. This number is free and works across the EU.
  • 110: For police emergencies.

Both numbers are available 24/7 and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones without a SIM card.

2. National Regulations for Medical Emergencies

Germany has strict regulations to ensure that medical emergencies are handled promptly and effectively:

  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Operated by a mix of public, private, and non-profit organizations (e.g., the German Red Cross, Malteser, Johanniter, and ASB). These services are regulated at the state level but follow national standards.
  • Response Time: EMS is required to respond to emergencies within 8-15 minutes, depending on the region.
  • Universal Access: Emergency care is available to everyone, regardless of nationality, residency status, or insurance coverage. No one is denied treatment in an emergency.

3. What to Do in a Medical Emergency

If you or someone else experiences a medical emergency in Germany:

  1. Call 112: Provide the following information (in German or English):
    • Who: Your name and contact details.
    • What: Describe the emergency (e.g., heart attack, accident).
    • Where: Provide the exact location (address, landmarks, etc.).
    • How Many: Number of people involved.
    • Condition: Describe the condition of the patient(s).
  2. Follow Instructions: The dispatcher may provide first-aid instructions while help is on the way.
  3. Stay Calm: Remain on the line until the dispatcher confirms they have all the necessary information.

4. Ambulance Services

  • Types of Ambulances:
    • RTW (Rettungswagen): Fully equipped emergency ambulance with paramedics.
    • KTW (Krankentransportwagen): Non-emergency patient transport vehicle.
    • NEF (Notarzteinsatzfahrzeug): Emergency doctor vehicle, dispatched alongside an ambulance if advanced medical care is needed.
  • Air Ambulance: Helicopter services are available for critical emergencies, especially in remote or rural areas.

5. Costs of Emergency Medical Care

  • For Residents with Health Insurance:
    • Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung - GKV): Covers emergency medical care, including ambulance services. A small co-payment (usually €10 per ambulance ride) may apply.
    • Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung - PKV): Coverage depends on the policy, but most plans include emergency care.
  • For Visitors:
    • EU/EEA Citizens: Can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for emergency care. However, this may not cover all costs (e.g., repatriation).
    • Non-EU Citizens: Must pay out-of-pocket unless they have travel insurance or international health insurance. Costs can be high, so insurance is strongly recommended.
  • Uninsured Individuals: Emergency care will still be provided, but you will be billed for the full cost. Ambulance rides can cost between €200-€500, and hospital treatment can range from €500 to several thousand euros, depending on the severity of the condition.

6. Emergency Rooms (Notaufnahme)

  • Access: Emergency rooms in hospitals are open 24/7. You can go directly to the nearest hospital if you can safely transport yourself or the patient.
  • Triage System: Patients are treated based on the severity of their condition, not on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Language Barrier: Most medical staff speak English, but it’s helpful to know basic German phrases or have a translation app.

7. Pharmacies and Emergency Medications

  • Apotheken (Pharmacies): Pharmacies are the only places where you can purchase prescription medications in Germany.
  • Emergency Pharmacies: Outside regular hours, a rotating system ensures that at least one pharmacy in each area is open 24/7. You can find the nearest emergency pharmacy by searching online (e.g., via the website "Apotheken Umschau") or calling 0800 00 22 833.
  • Over-the-Counter Medications: Basic medications like painkillers (e.g., ibuprofen, paracetamol) are available without a prescription, but stronger medications require a doctor’s prescription.

8. Country-Specific Considerations

  • Language: While many emergency responders and medical professionals speak English, it’s useful to know key German phrases like:
    • "Hilfe!" (Help!)
    • "Ich brauche einen Arzt." (I need a doctor.)
    • "Es ist ein Notfall." (It’s an emergency.)
  • Cultural Norms: Germans value efficiency and directness. Be concise and clear when describing the emergency.
  • Documentation: Always carry your ID, health insurance card, and any relevant medical documents (e.g., allergy information, prescriptions).
  • First Aid Knowledge: Basic first aid knowledge is widespread in Germany, as it’s a requirement for obtaining a driver’s license. However, bystanders are not legally obligated to provide assistance beyond calling 112.

9. Non-Emergency Medical Assistance

For non-life-threatening situations, you can:

  • Call 116 117: This is the nationwide number for the on-call medical service (Ärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst). It connects you to doctors available outside regular office hours.
  • Visit a General Practitioner (Hausarzt): For minor issues, your first point of contact should be a general practitioner. Appointments are usually required, but some practices accept walk-ins.

10. Travel and Health Insurance

  • Visitors: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including ambulance services and repatriation.
  • Immigrants: Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. You must enroll in either public or private health insurance upon arrival.

11. COVID-19 and Other Public Health Emergencies

  • COVID-19: Testing and treatment for COVID-19 are covered by public health insurance. Visitors may need to pay for tests unless symptomatic or directed by a doctor.
  • Vaccinations: Emergency vaccination campaigns (e.g., for flu or pandemics) are organized by local health authorities.

12. Key Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Always carry your health insurance card or proof of insurance.
  • Save emergency numbers (112 and 116 117) in your phone.
  • Learn basic German phrases for emergencies.
  • If you have a chronic condition, carry a translated medical history and a list of medications.

Germany’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and its emergency services are designed to provide rapid and effective care. By understanding the procedures and being prepared, you can ensure that you or your loved ones receive the best possible assistance in a medical emergency.