Socialized Health Care

In writing this blog one of my goals is to provide a glimpse of life in Germany for those who have never had the opportunity to live or are just curious about life in Europe. One topic of interest I discussed with friends and coworkers before leaving Oregon was socialized healthcare. Some of the questions were:

1. How is socialized healthcare organized? 

2. How is it to work in a pharmacy? How is it different?

3. Does socialized healthcare really provide good care? 

Living in Germany for the past 5 months I have had more experiences with the medical system than anticipated. Thankfully, we are all healthy today. I plan to provide answers to all the questions but for now here are some of the encounters my family has already experienced. 

Pharmacy sign on door

Dental Care

My daughter was running and fell on the sidewalk and chipped off 1/5 of her front tooth. Within a week after asking new friends and acquaintances for their recommendations, we chose to visit the most conveniently located dentist and hoped they were good at what they do. After entering the practice we had a sense that the dentist must be up-to-date in the field. The office space was beautiful with a simple, modern, nordic design. We were able to get a same-day appointment and after a 60 minute visit, 5 forms and 3 signatures my daughter left with a great looking smile :) We didn't pay anything for the somewhat cosmetic procedure! In the US this would have cost us an arm, but not a leg.

Routine Primary Doctor Care

My husband and I walked into a local primary care practice with 5 doctors. We were able to pick which doctor (if we wanted to) and have a full new patient appointment within 2 weeks. Pretty great and quick, huh? So far the notions that socialized healthcare limits choice are not true. 

This pharmacy was established in 1620 and relocated here in 1767, Wow! 

Flu Shots

Flu shots are more difficult to get in Germany than in the US. Flu shots are not available at every neighborhood pharmacy. To receive a flu shot you either need to have an employer that organizes a flu shot drive or go visit your doctor. For my daughter we walked into a pediatrician office and waited to meet the pediatrician and get a flu shot without an appointment or previously established relationship. The total visit took about 3 hours. 

Monthly Out-of-Pocket Cost for Health/Dental Insurance

Monthly costs to insure a family of 3 privately without employer assistance in Germany = 180 Euros (approx. 198 USD) Amazing!  About 4 years ago we price checked for a comprehensive medical/dental/vision plan in the US with low copays and deductibles and received a quote for about $1200 monthly. 

Hospital Stay

In December we had an unexpected 3 day stay in a children's hospital for my daughter. She is now doing wonderful :) We shared a room with another patient in a department specializing in their conditions. We appreciated and are just in awe of the kindness and upbeat humor of the staff, nurses and doctors. They helped and advised us in so many ways during all hours of the day and night. Thank you.
During our stay we were surprised to be able to borrow some books from a mobile library. What a great idea! The books really helped to soothe my daughter during a particularly rough night. We also enjoyed the 2 clowns that came by and shared their happiness and songs. This stay would have cost us a LEG in the US but with the socialized medical coverage here in Germany we paid nothing. The prescriptions she needed after her stay were also covered with no charge. 

What are your thoughts on socialized healthcare? Surprised by our encounters? So far my family has just had positive experiences and sense we are in good hands.