Privatkrankenversicherung or private health insurance (PKV) in Germany is one of the two main types of health insurance available to residents of Germany, together with the state health insurance (GKV). This article is for those who want to know more about the advantages and disadvantages of PKV, how it differs from GKV, and who might be a suitable candidate for PKV. If you have any questions feel free to contact us for advice or send a request.
What is private health insurance?
Private health insurance is a form of health insurance where premiums are determined based on individual factors such as the age, gender, and health of the insured. It covers a wide range of medical services that often exceed what is offered through the GKV.
The main advantages of PKV:
- Wide range of coverage: PKV often includes more medical services than GKV.
- Quick access to doctors and medical services: With PKV, patients can have quick access to doctors and short-term appointments.
- Policy customization: PKV policies can be customized to suit the individual needs of the insured.
The main disadvantages of PKV:
- Higher premiums: PKV premiums are generally higher than GKV premiums, especially for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.
- Denial Risk: Because PKV is based on individual risk, insurers may deny coverage based on medical conditions.
- Greater Health Responsibility: PKV patients may be required to pay for medical services in advance and then wait for reimbursement from their insurer.
Who can use PKV?
To be eligible for PKV, you must meet certain criteria. You must either be self-employed or have a sufficiently high income (more than a certain threshold that is set every year. In 2023, this is an income of 66.600€). In addition, international students and guests can use the PKV.
When is the best time to take out private health insurance?
The right time to switch to PKV depends on your situation. This may be a good idea if you are young, healthy and earning enough to cover the cost of PKV contributions. It is important to remember that returning to GKV can be difficult after switching to PKV, and after age 55 it is not possible.
Transferring part of the contributions to a non-working spouse or children
Debunking the myth: Return from PKV to GKV
There is a common myth that after switching to private health insurance (PKV), returning to public health insurance (GKV) is difficult or even impossible. In fact, there are several paths that can be used to return to the GKV system.
- Decrease in income: If your annual income falls below a certain threshold, you will be able to return to the GKV system. This threshold changes every year, so up-to-date information should be clarified.
- Employment: If you become an employee with an income below a certain threshold, you will also be eligible to return to the GKV system.
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Getting unemployed status and unemployment benefits can also be a way to return to the public health insurance (GKV) system after private health insurance (PKV).
If you become unemployed and qualify for unemployment benefits, you may choose the GKV system. This is because the GKV system is usually more accessible to those who are in an unstable financial situation or have a low income, which is often the case when receiving unemployment benefits.
Private health insurance in Germany offers many benefits, but it can be more expensive and more difficult to manage compared to public health insurance. Before making a decision, you should carefully consider your needs and financial situation.
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