The Private Health Insurance (PKV):
An Exclusive Choice for Your Healthcare
Private health insurance (PKV) represents personalized healthcare that is particularly attractive for civil servants, high-earning employees, self-employed individuals, and students. Unlike statutory health insurance (GKV), PKV premiums are not based on income but are determined by the individual insurance package, age, and health condition of the insured.
Who Can Be Privately Insured?
Private health insurance (PKV) is available to a specific group:
- Civil Servants: They receive state allowances for their medical expenses and should consider a private supplementary insurance for the remaining costs.
- Employees: Their gross income must exceed the annual earnings limit to qualify for private insurance. They also benefit from an employer’s contribution.
- Self-Employed: They have the freedom to choose between statutory health insurance (GKV) and private health insurance (PKV), regardless of their income.
- Students: They can switch to private health insurance at the beginning of their studies but are bound to this decision for the duration of their higher education.
We take care of your private health insurance.
We recommend taking advantage of the benefits of private health insurance to receive top-notch medical care and additional services. As an insurance agency, we specialize in offering tailored solutions that meet your individual needs and budget. Contact us today for a personal consultation and to find the best private health insurance for you.
Important Aspects When Switching to PKV
Switching to private health insurance should be carefully considered:
- Health Condition and Age: These factors significantly influence the insurance premium.
- No Free Family Insurance: Unlike in statutory health insurance (GKV), family members must be insured separately.
- Deductible: This can reduce premium costs but also means that you have to pay some expenses out of pocket in case of illness.
- Return to GKV: Switching back can be complicated and is subject to certain conditions.
Advantages of Private Health Insurance
The advantages of private health insurance are numerous. Insured individuals receive exceptional medical care that goes beyond the benefits of statutory health insurance. They benefit from quick appointments with specialists, free choice of doctors and hospitals, and access to medications and therapies not covered by GKV. Additional advantages include single or double rooms in hospitals, treatment by chief physicians, and premium refunds for not submitting claims. The main feature, however, is the best possible medical care, especially in emergencies.
Disadvantages of Private Health Insurance
It is important to note that PKV also has some disadvantages. A good private health insurance policy requires financial investment, and premiums can rise significantly with age if no suitable precautionary measures are taken. Unlike GKV, children and spouses cannot be insured for free under PKV, and there is no contribution-free period during maternity or parental leave. Additionally, many PKV plans have a deductible, which can lead to higher costs over time. Switching back from PKV to GKV can be challenging, depending on the professional situation.
Self-Employed and Private Health Insurance
For self-employed individuals, private health insurance is an attractive option. Unlike employees who must exceed a certain income threshold to switch to PKV, self-employed individuals can choose private insurance regardless of their income. This allows for individual adjustment of benefits and premiums to meet personal needs. Self-employed individuals with stable income and good health particularly benefit from the advantages of PKV. Private health insurance offers them top-notch medical care and the ability to select preventive measures according to their needs.
Conclusion
Private health insurance offers tailored benefits and comprehensive medical care. However, the decision to opt for PKV should be made carefully, as it has long-term financial and health implications. It is worthwhile to consult a trusted insurance advisor to find a policy that best suits your individual needs and circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Private Health Insurance
1: What is the mandatory insurance threshold in private health insurance?
Answer: The mandatory insurance threshold, also known as the annual earnings limit (JAEG), defines the income level at which employees can choose between private and statutory health insurance. In 2024, this threshold is set at 69,300 euros per year.
2: What happens if a privately insured person becomes unemployed?
Answer: When privately insured individuals become unemployed and receive unemployment benefits (Arbeitslosengeld I), they generally have to switch back to statutory health and nursing care insurance. However, they can apply for an exemption from the insurance obligation if they have been fully privately insured for the five years preceding their unemployment benefits.
3: What happens if a privately insured person becomes unable to work?
Answer: In case of disability, private health insurance remains in place if the individual was privately insured before the disability. The premium remains the same, but the contribution for daily sickness allowance ceases.
4: Is it possible to take out private health insurance despite pre-existing conditions?
Answer: Yes, it is generally possible to take out private health insurance with pre-existing conditions. However, insurability depends on the specific pre-existing conditions, and there may be exclusions or surcharges.
5: Is there a family insurance option in private health insurance?
Answer: No, private health insurance does not offer free family insurance. Each family member must have their own contract and pay the corresponding premiums. However, there are special, more affordable rates for children.
6: What advantages does private health insurance offer for self-employed individuals?
Answer: Self-employed individuals have the freedom to switch to private health insurance regardless of their income. This allows them to tailor their insurance individually and benefit from quick doctor appointments, free choice of doctors, and additional services.
7: What options do students have regarding private health insurance?
Answer: Students can choose private health insurance at the beginning of their studies and benefit from special student rates. This is particularly attractive for children of civil servants who receive allowances.
8: What are the advantages and disadvantages of private health insurance?
Answer: Private health insurance offers top-notch medical care and additional services but requires financial investment. Premiums can increase with age, and there is no free family insurance.
9: What options are available for older individuals in private health insurance?
Answer: Individuals over 55 years old generally cannot switch back to statutory health insurance. Instead, they should explore how to adjust their private health insurance to save on premiums.
10: What is the best approach to taking out private health insurance?
Answer: The best approach to taking out private health insurance is to seek thorough advice from an expert. They can align individual needs and financial capabilities to find the right PKV.
We take care of your private health insurance.
We recommend taking advantage of the benefits of private health insurance to receive top-notch medical care and additional services. As an insurance agency, we specialize in offering tailored solutions that meet your individual needs and budget. Contact us today for a personal consultation and to find the best private health insurance for you.
