What do I need to do to access medical care as a newcomer?

Germany requires residents to have health insurance, either statutory or private. If your existing private policy meets German standards, you can usually continue using it, but you should confirm coverage for local providers. To access care, you first need to register your address with the city’s registration office, which then allows you to obtain a health insurance number. With that number, you can book appointments at general practitioners, specialists and hospitals. Many doctors accept both German statutory insurance and international private policies; it’s helpful to ask about billing procedures before the first visit. The city’s health department website lists accredited medical facilities and provides guidance on insurance requirements.