Supplementary Health Insurance (Zusatzversicherung): When Do You Need It in Germany?
In the German healthcare system, the statutory health insurance (GKV) usually covers only the basic level of care. If you want more comfort, broader protection or special treatments, you can add supplementary private health insurance (private Zusatzversicherung) tailored to your individual needs.
| Situation | Why is supplementary insurance helpful? |
|---|---|
| Dental treatments (Zahnzusatzversicherung) | Statutory insurance only covers a small part of the costs for implants, crowns and many orthodontic treatments for children. A dental plan can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket share. |
| Private room in hospital (Krankenhauszusatzversicherung) | If you want a single room or treatment by the head physician (Chefarztbehandlung), you typically need additional hospital cover. |
| Glasses and contact lenses (Brillenzusatzversicherung) | GKV rarely pays for glasses. A supplementary tariff can grant regular allowances for glasses or contacts. |
| Treatment outside Germany (Auslandsreisekrankenversicherung) | For emergencies while travelling abroad, GKV cover is often limited or does not apply in full. A separate travel health policy is strongly recommended. |
| Alternative or natural treatments (Heilpraktiker / Homoeopathy) | Visits to alternative practitioners and many complementary methods are not fully covered – or not at all – by statutory insurance. |
| Extra pregnancy check-ups (Schwangerschaftszusatz) | Special examinations such as 4D ultrasound or certain genetic tests are often not fully reimbursed by the GKV. |
Supplementary health insurance is particularly recommended for:
Patients who want more comfort and higher treatment standards (e.g. single room, senior consultant treatment).
People who expect significant dental work or orthodontics.
Frequent travellers who need reliable cover abroad.
Individuals who value alternative medicine, prevention and additional check-ups beyond what GKV pays for.
The price depends on factors such as:
your age
your current health status
the level of coverage you choose
Example: a good dental supplementary policy can cost around €10–30 per month.
Most insurers require a health questionnaire (Gesundheitsfragen).
Some applications may be rejected, and many tariffs include waiting periods (Wartezeiten) before full benefits apply.
Supplementary policies are not always easy to switch or cancel – read the terms and conditions carefully before signing.
Would you like a comparison table of leading supplementary insurance providers in Germany, sorted by category (dental, hospital, travel, glasses, etc.)?
The editorial team of the website makes every effort to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur and some details may change or be incomplete. The information in this article should therefore be regarded as an initial guide only. For binding and individual advice, please always consult health insurers, insurance advisors or other competent authorities.
