Leave poor health insurance behind: A Guide to Switching in Germany
KLforExpats, an English-speaking health insurance brokerage, provides insights on when and how to switch health insurance providers in Germany.
Are you dissatisfied with your current health insurance? Perhaps your monthly premiums are too high, or your coverage isn’t sufficient. Maybe your circumstances and health preferences have changed, or you made a hasty choice when you first arrived in Germany and now want to explore other options.
Switching health insurance providers can seem overwhelming, but with proper guidance, the process can be straightforward and beneficial in the long run. This article explains the requirements for canceling your contract with your current provider and aims to help you avoid common mistakes that could complicate your situation.
Unlike car insurance, where you can frequently switch providers to find better rates, health insurance—especially private insurance—should be viewed as a long-term commitment. Switching should be carefully considered, as doing so later in life may result in losing part of your aging reserves in the public system, and a new medical assessment could lead to complications and higher premiums.
Common Reasons for Switching Health Insurance Providers
When might you consider changing your health insurance provider in Germany, and when is it better to stick with your current coverage?
- I simply pay too much!
- Different providers have various premiums and coverage options, so comparing could lead to substantial savings. This is particularly true if you're publicly insured as a high-earning individual with no dependents, as private insurance premiums are not income-based and can be more affordable for high earners.
- I want better coverage.
- In the public system, benefits are mostly standardized, while private health insurance offers customizable options. Private insurers may provide enhanced services, more comprehensive coverage, or additional benefits such as alternative treatments, shorter wait times for appointments, and access to a broader range of specialists.
- I prefer customer service in English.
- If your current provider doesn’t offer English-speaking customer service or if the claims process is lengthy and complicated, switching could improve your experience and reduce frustration.
If you’re considering making a switch, there are several factors to take into account. For example, when switching between private providers or moving from public to private insurance, your age and health status will affect the cost of private premiums.
How to Switch Health Insurance Providers
There are two main options for switching health insurance providers:
Option 1: Switching Providers Yourself
Follow these steps to change your provider on your own:
1. Check Eligibility: Confirm that the minimum contract duration with your current provider has expired.
2. Research: Compare different providers based on premiums, coverage, customer service, and additional benefits.
3. Application: Choose a new provider and complete their application form. For private insurance, this will include a detailed medical questionnaire.
4. Give Notice: Send a written notice of cancellation to your current provider within the required notice period (usually three months). Also, provide proof of your new insurance within this period for the cancellation to be valid.
5. Confirmation: Ensure you receive confirmation from both your current and new provider regarding the switch.
6. Inform Your Employer: If employed, notify your employer of the change by forwarding the relevant documents from your new provider to update payroll deductions.
Option 2: Working with a Health Insurance Expert
You can also choose to work with an independent health insurance broker. A knowledgeable broker collaborates with all major insurance providers in Germany and can offer quotes based on your health needs, preferences, and budget, saving you research time.
A reputable broker will conduct the medical assessment upfront and negotiate prices with potential providers to avoid unexpected surprises in the contract. They will also assist you with the application process, making the switch easier and less time-consuming. In Germany, brokers are typically free to use, as regulated by law, making them a convenient and cost-effective option for a smooth transition.
Enhance Your Healthcare Experience in Germany
Switching health insurance providers in Germany requires careful consideration and thorough research. Whether you choose public or private insurance, ensure your new provider meets your healthcare needs and financial situation. By following these steps or consulting with an independent broker, you can make informed decisions and improve your healthcare experience in Germany.