Berlin is a bustling and diverse city, attracting people from all corners of the world. Whether you’re an expat working here, a student on exchange, or a tourist passing through, one question often comes up at inconvenient times: how to see a doctor in Germany when you don’t speak German fluently? The search queries are telling – phrases like “English speaking doctor Berlin”, “English doctors near me”, “private doctor near me” and “urgent care Berlin” are increasingly common. This guide explains how to find medical help in Berlin, outlines your options for both public and private services, and introduces RAB, a private medical service with English-speaking doctors on call.
Everyday scenario: illness away from home
Imagine you’re on a business trip to Berlin when your throat becomes painfully sore. It’s Saturday evening, and you don’t know any German doctors. You type “doctor Berlin English” or “doctor’s office near me” into your search engine, only to be flooded with results. Many websites offer listings, but they seldom clarify whether the doctors speak English. Moreover, you need help now, not an appointment next week. What are your options?
Understanding the German healthcare system
Germany’s healthcare system is renowned for its efficiency and quality. However, it can be confusing if you’re new here. In emergencies, such as severe injuries, chest pain, or loss of consciousness, you must dial 112 for an ambulance and emergency services. For non-life-threatening medical issues outside of normal practice hours (evenings, weekends, holidays), the 116 117 number connects you with the public medical on-call service. But this service is mainly in German, and the waiting times can be long.
Public options for expats and tourists
- Calling 116 117 for minor but urgent problems: If you have a fever, mild injury, or flu-like symptoms, the 116 117 call centre can refer you to a nearby on-duty practice. The service is free for people with statutory insurance, but it’s often only available in German.
- Visiting an emergency practice: Some hospitals operate walk-in clinics or Bereitschaftspraxen at weekends. They function as urgent care centres. However, you may have to wait for hours, and English services are not guaranteed.
- Regular general practitioners (“Hausarzt”): During business hours, general practitioners are your first point of contact. You can search for “English speaking doctors in Berlin” on official KV or insurance portals. Appointments may take days or weeks, and you’ll need basic German to navigate the system.
Private options – when speed and language matter
RAB: Private doctor house calls in Berlin
The Privatärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst RAB offers a unique solution for English-speaking patients. It is a private, mobile service that dispatches doctors directly to your home, hotel, or office. Here’s what sets RAB apart:
- English-speaking support: When you call RAB (+49 30 550 77 870), you won’t be connected to a call centre. Instead, trained staff will answer in German or English, assess your situation and arrange a visit. Many of the doctors speak multiple languages, including English.
- Fast response: Most visits occur within 60–90 minutes, far quicker than waiting in line at a public clinic.
- Professional house and hotel visits: Whether you’re staying in a hotel or renting an apartment, the doctor will come to you. This is especially handy if you’re searching for “house doctor near me” or “walk in doctor near me” but don’t want to leave your accommodation.
- Comprehensive medical care: RAB brings medical equipment, such as a portable ECG, ultrasound machine, and lab tests. The doctor can administer infusions, pain relief, and antibiotics. Should the need arise, they can also issue a sick note (Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung), a fitness-to-fly certificate, or perform a post-mortem examination (important if a loved one passes away while travelling).
- Transparent billing: Fees follow the official German scale (GOÄ). Private health insurance typically reimburses them. If you have public insurance, you pay a flat rate (around €190–250), which is modest for personal, expert care delivered to your door.
Why choose a private doctor?
When you’re away from home, you may have additional concerns about confidentiality, communication, and speed. Private medical services like RAB excel in these areas:
- Language: Clear communication is crucial when discussing symptoms. RAB ensures you can explain your condition and understand the doctor’s advice in English.
- Convenience: No travel required; your doctor comes to you. For business travellers or families with small children, avoiding the trip to a clinic saves time and stress.
- No queues: Time is precious, especially during business trips or short stays. With RAB, there’s no waiting room or queue; the doctor’s visit is scheduled for you.
- Comprehensive service: From prescribing medications to performing diagnostic tests and issuing certificates, RAB covers a wide range of medical needs.
Other private options
Beyond RAB, Berlin hosts numerous private practices (“Privatpraxen”) and doctors who see patients on an appointment basis. While these provide a high standard of care, appointments can be hard to get spontaneously, and many only see privately insured patients. If you’re insured in another EU country or have international travel insurance, confirm coverage before booking. Searches for “private doctor near me” or “private doctors near me” might lead you to these offices, but always check their language offerings and appointment policies.
What if you don’t have insurance?
Visitors without valid health insurance can still receive treatment, but they must pay out-of-pocket. In that case, RAB’s transparent pricing can be beneficial because you know costs upfront. Always contact your travel insurer to see what’s covered.
How to prepare for a doctor visit in Germany
- Have your ID and insurance details ready: Whether you’re using the public system or a private service, identification is required.
- Know your medication list and allergies: If the doctor doesn’t know your history, provide a list of medications and any allergies.
- Translate important terms: If you call 116 117 and your German is limited, have keywords like Fieber (fever), Schmerzen (pain), or Atemnot (shortness of breath) ready. Alternatively, call RAB directly and communicate in English.
- Save essential numbers: In your phone, save 112 for emergencies, 116 117 for non-emergency public services, and +49 30 550 77 870 for RAB.
Frequently asked questions from expats and tourists
Can I call 116 117 in English?
Operators on the public hotline may speak limited English. If you’re not confident in German, a private service like RAB is a safer option.
What is the difference between RAB and a walk-in clinic?
A walk-in clinic requires you to travel and wait your turn. RAB dispatches a doctor to you and eliminates the waiting room entirely.
How long does it take for a doctor to arrive?
RAB typically reaches you within an hour to 90 minutes. Public services may require several hours of waiting, especially on weekends.
Are private doctor fees covered by insurance?
Private insurance usually covers the costs. Public insurance does not; you pay a flat rate, which can sometimes be reimbursed by supplementary plans or travel insurance.
Conclusion: Take charge of your health in Berlin
Getting sick abroad is stressful, but Berlin offers a variety of ways to get medical help. Public services (112 and 116 117) serve everyone, though language barriers may complicate things. Private services, like RAB, fill the gap with English-speaking support, rapid response, and comprehensive care at your location. When time, language, or privacy matter, opting for a private doctor house call can make all the difference.
Book your appointment now
If you need medical assistance in Berlin right now, call RAB for a fast, English-speaking doctor. Simply dial the number below and get expert care wherever you are.
