Medical Crowdfunding: When and Why Does It Become Necessary in Germany?
In a country where health insurance covers most costs—why do some people still need to raise donations for treatment?
Although Germany has one of Europe’s most comprehensive health insurance systems, some cases are not fully covered or not covered at all, pushing patients toward crowdfunding as a last resort.
When does crowdfunding become necessary?
Treatments outside Germany
advanced therapies (e.g., CAR-T cell therapy or organ transplants abroad)
clinical trials in the US or Asia
Procedures not available in Germany
Medications not yet approved
experimental or off-label use
or not yet authorized by the EMA or BfArM
High-cost treatments not covered by insurance
dental implants or “electronic eyes”
repeated fertility treatments
some long-term physiotherapy or behavioral therapy cases
Home medical equipment and devices
customized powered wheelchairs
advanced ventilators
home setups for cancer, MS, or ALS patients
Alternative or palliative options
experimental stem-cell therapies
physical or psychological therapy in private centers
end-of-life care in countries such as Switzerland
Is there official public support for crowdfunding?
No. However:
it is not illegal
it is treated as voluntary donations subject to donation and tax rules (Spendenrecht)
Examples of well-known platforms:
Betterplace.org
Gofundme.com
Leetchi.com
Legal aspects to pay attention to
| Item | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Use of donations | donations should be used only for the purpose stated in the campaign |
| Taxes | it may become taxable if funds are used for non-medical or broadly personal purposes |
| Transparency | best practice: regular updates with invoices and medical progress |
| Documentation | contracts/receipts with hospitals or clinics to confirm the financial need |
Real-life examples
Families raised €100,000+ for children treated with Zolgensma (a neurological drug costing around €2 million)
Cancer patients traveled to the US after insurance refused coverage in Germany
Funding communication devices for ALS patients not covered by insurance
Summary
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is crowdfunding common in Germany? | Yes, but it’s the exception, not the rule |
| When is it used? | when insurance coverage fails or treatment abroad is needed |
| Is it legal? | Yes—within rules of transparency and proper use |
| Are there reliable platforms? | Yes—such as Betterplace and Gofundme |
Our writers and editors strive to provide accurate information through extensive research and by reviewing multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Please treat this as initial guidance and consult the relevant authorities for verified information.
