Certain conditions must be met to switch to private health insurance:

• Employees: A switch is possible if your gross income exceeds the annual earnings threshold. This is adjusted yearly and stood at 73,800 Euros in 2025.
• Self-employed and Freelancers: You can choose a PHI irrespective of your income.
• Civil Servants: Private health insurance is often preferred due to subsidies from the civil service employer.
• Students: On commencing studies, you have the option to exempt yourself from compulsory public health insurance and opt for private coverage within three months of starting your course.

Private health insurance operates on a different principle than public health insurance. While contributions in public insurance are income-based, in PHI, they depend on your age at the start of contribution, your health condition, and the chosen tariff. Moreover, PHI is based on the reimbursement principle: you initially cover your medical costs and then submit your bills for reimbursement.

Another advantage of PHI is the option to tailor services to your needs. This allows for more comprehensive coverage, for instance, in dental replacement, hospital stays, sick pay, or outpatient services (e.g., visual aids), which goes beyond the standard services of public insurance.

PHI contribution rates are calculated individually. The key factors include:

• Age at Entry: The earlier you subscribe, the lower your contributions are usually.
• Health Status: Pre-existing conditions may result in a risk surcharge or benefit limitations.
• Tariff: An extensive service package generally costs more but ensures better coverage.
• Deductible: A higher deductible reduces monthly contributions.

To keep PHI contributions stable in old age, aging provisions are formed. This means a portion of your premiums is saved during the insurance period to cushion future cost increases. This leads to a more moderate development of contributions in retirement than often assumed.

These provisions are built from the start, allowing you to benefit from financial relief in the long term. Entering PHI early builds up reserves over many years, preventing significant contribution jumps later in life. This establishes a calculable and stable contribution structure in the long run.

A significant advantage of PHI is the expanded services compared to public insurance. Depending on your tariff, you can enjoy preferred medical attention, for example, shorter waiting times with specialists or a free choice of doctors. PHI often includes high-quality additional benefits, such as better hospital accommodations in a single or double room, and preferential treatment by the chief physician.

Private dental insurance holders benefit, too: high-quality dental restorations and modern treatment methods are usually more generously covered than in public insurance. Additionally, alternative therapies like osteopathy or homeopathy can be covered. These advantages provide tailor-made healthcare, meeting your personal needs.

Selecting the appropriate tariff and a financially stable insurer is crucial to receive services that match your needs and financial budget. Moreover, it's vital to note that returning to public health insurance is only possible under certain conditions - if your income falls below the earnings threshold and you're under 55 years old.

Overall, private health insurance offers significant advantages and strong health protection. It's the choice for those with high standards for medical services or flexible professional status. When considering PHI, it's essential to thoroughly analyze your personal situation and seek comprehensive and independent advice. This ensures that all aspects align with your needs in the long term.