Stuttgart

1. Emergency Services in Stuttgart

Germany has an efficient emergency response system, and Stuttgart is no exception. Here’s what you need to know:

Emergency Numbers

• 112: For medical emergencies and fire services (free of charge, available 24/7).
• 110: For police emergencies.
• 116 117: For non-emergency medical assistance outside of regular clinic hours (e.g., nights, weekends).

What to Do in an Emergency

• Call 112 for life-threatening situations (e.g., heart attack, severe injury).
• Provide your location, the nature of the emergency, and any relevant details.
• English-speaking operators are usually available, but it’s helpful to know basic German phrases.

Ambulance Services

• Ambulances are dispatched through the 112 system and are free for emergencies if you have health insurance.
• For non-emergency transport (e.g., to a hospital for a scheduled procedure), you may need to arrange this in advance and check with your insurance provider.

---

2. Hospitals and Clinics in Stuttgart

Stuttgart has a mix of public and private healthcare facilities, offering a wide range of services.

Major Hospitals

1. Klinikum Stuttgart (Stuttgart Hospital)

   • One of the largest and most advanced hospitals in Germany.
   • Includes specialized departments such as cardiology, oncology, pediatrics, and trauma care.
   • Website: www.klinikum-stuttgart.de

2. Robert-Bosch-Krankenhaus (RBK)

   • Renowned for its high-quality care and research facilities.
   • Specializes in internal medicine, surgery, and geriatrics.
   • Website: www.rbk.de

3. Marienhospital Stuttgart

   • A Catholic hospital known for its patient-centered care.
   • Offers services in orthopedics, neurology, and rehabilitation.
   • Website: www.marienhospital-stuttgart.de

Clinics and General Practitioners (Hausärzte)

• General practitioners (GPs) are the first point of contact for non-emergency medical issues.
• To find a GP, use the online directory at www.kvbawue.de or ask for recommendations.
• Many clinics offer walk-in services, but appointments are recommended.

Specialist Care

• Referrals from a GP are often required to see a specialist.
• Stuttgart has specialists in all major fields, including dermatology, gynecology, and orthopedics.

---

3. Pharmacies (Apotheken)

Pharmacies in Stuttgart are well-regulated and provide both prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Key Information

• Look for the red "A" sign, which indicates a licensed pharmacy.
• Prescription medications require a doctor’s prescription (Rezept).
• Pharmacists can provide advice on minor ailments and recommend over-the-counter treatments.

Emergency Pharmacies

• Some pharmacies operate 24/7 on a rotating basis. To find the nearest open pharmacy, visit www.aponet.de or check the list posted on any pharmacy door.

---

4. Health Insurance Requirements

Germany has a mandatory health insurance system, and coverage is essential for accessing healthcare.

For Visitors

• Travel Insurance: Visitors must have travel health insurance that meets Schengen visa requirements (minimum coverage of €30,000).
• Ensure your policy covers emergency medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation.

For Immigrants

• Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung - GKV):
  • Covers most medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions.
  • Monthly premiums are income-based (approx. 14.6% of gross income, shared between employer and employee).
• Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung - PKV):
  • Available for higher-income earners, self-employed individuals, and students.
  • Offers more flexibility and additional benefits but can be more expensive.

How to Register

• Immigrants must register with a health insurance provider upon arrival.
• Popular public insurers include AOK, TK (Techniker Krankenkasse), and Barmer.
• Private insurers include Allianz and AXA.

---

5. Costs of Healthcare

• Doctor Visits: Free for insured individuals; uninsured visitors may pay €50–€100 per visit.
• Hospital Stays: Covered by insurance, but a co-payment of €10 per day (up to 28 days per year) is required.
• Prescriptions: Partially covered by insurance; co-payments range from €5–€10.
• Emergency Care: Free for insured individuals; uninsured visitors may face high costs (ambulance rides can cost €200–€500).

---

6. Procedures for Accessing Care

For Visitors

1. Carry your travel insurance details at all times.
2. In case of illness, visit a GP or call 116 117 for non-emergency care.
3. For emergencies, call 112 or go directly to the nearest hospital.

For Immigrants

1. Register with a health insurance provider as part of your residency process.
2. Choose a GP for regular check-ups and referrals.
3. Always carry your insurance card (Krankenversicherungskarte) when visiting a doctor or hospital.

---

7. Local Considerations

• Language Barrier: While many healthcare professionals speak English, it’s helpful to learn basic German medical terms or bring a translator.
• Cultural Sensitivity: German healthcare providers are professional and respectful, but direct communication is valued. Be clear and concise when describing symptoms.
• Appointments: Punctuality is important. Arrive on time for appointments or notify the clinic if you need to cancel.
• Vaccinations: Ensure your vaccinations are up to date. Germany has specific requirements for children attending school.

---

8. Practical Advice

• Emergency Preparedness: Save emergency numbers (112, 116 117) in your phone.
• Health Records: Carry a copy of your medical history, especially if you have chronic conditions.
• Pharmacy Tips: Keep a small first-aid kit with common medications, as pharmacies may have limited hours.
• Mental Health: Stuttgart has mental health services, including therapists and support groups. Referrals from a GP are often required.

---

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Stuttgart’s healthcare system, whether you’re visiting or planning to settle in the city.