Doctors
In Germany there are numerous types of doctors, from GP’s ("Allgemeinmediziner") to specialists ("Fachärzte") such as eye specialists, dermatologists, etc. Most people have a GP as their "family doctor" ("Hausarzt"). This doctor can transfer people to specialists if necessary. In certain cases you can visit a specialist without consulting your family doctor first. Doctors have specific visiting hours when patients can seek advice. It is always recommendable to make an appointment as waiting times can be long. If a doctor is needed urgently, it is not necessary to make an appointment. The names and addresses of doctors can be found in the local telephone directory. The Yellow Pages ("Gelbe Seiten") list specialists. Regular preventative medical check-ups are also recommended. This is particularly recommended for small children, the dentist and for people over the age of 35. Doctors, hospitals and health offices provide information on preventative medical check-ups.
Since the 1st of January 2004 you now have to pay – if you are insured with a public health insurer – a practice fee of ten euros each time you visit your doctor for the first time within each yearly quarter. This is regardless of whether you are visiting your general practitioner, a specialist doctor or a psychotherapist. You do not have to pay a fee if you have been referred by another doctor. Children and juveniles under the age of 18 are generally exempt from paying any additional charges and the practice fee. No practice fee is charged for two dental check-ups per year. You also do not have to pay a practice fee for precautionary check-ups and immunisations.
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