In Germany health insurance is obligatory.  The most convenient option may be to extend your existing medical insurance to Germany; this way you know what you are covered for and do not have to face with a language barrier when dealing with German insurance companies.  If you want to start a policy in Germany, you have the option between several private insurance companies and a National Health Insurance program which is subsidized by the government and by contributions from employers, employees, and professionals.  Make sure you know for sure what you are covered for; dental work in particular can be extremely expensive in Germany.  

Most doctors and dentists will speak English to some extent, but if you want to find one who is fluent, you will have to ask around.  You can also try the International Association for Medical Assistance (IAMAT); it has a list of English speaking doctors worldwide.  The centre in Germany is at the Medizinische Universitat in Bonn, at 0228-280-2256.  Contact details for IAMAT in the US are in our handy addresses and links page.

EU nationals are covered for emergencies, so long as they have an E 111 form.  You can get an application for form E 111 and the form itself from your local post office or by phoning the Health Literature Line : free phone 0800 555 777 (UK). You need to complete the details on the application form and the E111 and take them to be signed and stamped at the post office, before you leave the UK.  The E111 covers you for emergency medical care

There are exceptions to E111 cover. If you intend to stay abroad for some time, or are moving to Europe to live permanently, then a separate form, E112, is more appropriate. This can also be obtained from your local health board, which will explain to you how to complete it and what treatment is covered.