What is the difference between private health insurance and statutory health insurance?
April 10, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Ingo Gallenberg
Dear lawyer,
My name is Lucas Hemminger and I have a question regarding health insurance. I am currently deciding whether to opt for private or statutory health insurance and am unsure about the differences between the two options.
In terms of my situation: I am 32 years old, single, childless, and work as an employee in a medium-sized company. I have always been insured under the statutory system, as I have never delved deeply into the topic of health insurance. However, I am now considering private health insurance, as I have heard that it can offer some advantages.
My main concerns revolve around whether I would be as well protected with private health insurance as with statutory health insurance. I wonder if I would receive the same medical care in case of illness and if the premiums would be affordable. Additionally, I am worried about potentially facing difficulties in paying the premiums as I age.
Therefore, my question to you is: What are the specific differences between private and statutory health insurance? Is it advisable to opt for private insurance, and what are the respective advantages and disadvantages? Which option would you personally recommend to me and why?
I hope you can assist me in making my decision and I look forward to your expert advice.
Best regards,
Lucas Hemminger
Dear Mr. Lucas Hemminger,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding health insurance. It is understandable that you are unsure whether to opt for private or statutory health insurance. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to be well informed in order to make the right decision for yourself.
Let's start with the specific differences between private and statutory health insurance. In statutory health insurance, all employees are mandatory insured if their income is below the insurance obligation limit. Contributions are based on income and are split equally between the employee and employer. In private health insurance, on the other hand, employees with a certain income and self-employed individuals can insure themselves. Contributions are calculated individually based on age, health condition, and selected coverage.
One major advantage of private health insurance is better medical care. Privately insured individuals often have access to quicker doctor appointments, specialists, and treatment methods that are not or only partially covered by statutory health insurance. Additionally, as a private patient, you can usually get a single room in the hospital and benefit from additional services such as dental treatments or alternative medicine.
However, there are also disadvantages to private health insurance. Contributions can be higher compared to statutory health insurance, especially as you age. There is also the risk of contribution increases, which can lead to financial burdens in old age. Switching back to statutory health insurance is usually only possible in exceptional cases.
In your situation as a 32-year-old single employee, private health insurance should definitely be considered, as you can benefit from the advantages of better medical care. However, it is important to be able to afford the contributions long-term and be aware of possible contribution increases.
Ultimately, the decision between private and statutory health insurance depends on your individual needs, financial capabilities, and priorities. I recommend seeking comprehensive advice and comparing different offers to find the insurance that suits you best.
I hope that this information has helped you with your decision. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Ingo Gallenberg
