Frankfurt is known for its striking skyline, historic charm, and bustling financial district. But if you end up getting sick in, navigating the local healthcare system is key to getting back on your feet.
From pharmacies to emergency care, hereโs everything you need to know to handle a health issue in Frankfurt.
Understanding Frankfurtโs Healthcare System
Germany offers high-quality medical care, and Frankfurt has some of the countryโs top hospitals and clinics. Hereโs how to navigate the system:
- Public Hospitals: Equipped for all emergencies but can have wait times for non-urgent cases.
- Private Clinics: Faster service, often with English-speaking doctors, but can be pricey without insurance.
Our Expert Tip: Use the Air Doctor app to find English-speaking medical professionals nearby.
Emergency Numbers You Should Know
In case of an emergency, keep these numbers handy:
- 112 โ Emergency number for ambulances and serious medical issues.
- 116 117 โ For non-urgent medical care, available 24/7.
- +49 30 4593 00 โ University Hospital Frankfurt, a major facility for emergency care.
Our Expert Tip: If youโre unsure whether you need a hospital visit, call 116 117 first for advice.
Communicating with Medical Professionals in Frankfurt
Many doctors in Frankfurt speak English, but knowing a few basic phrases can be helpful:
- โI feel sick.โ โ Ich fรผhle mich krank.
- โWhere is the nearest pharmacy?โ โ Wo ist die nรคchste Apotheke?
- โI need to see a doctor.โ โ Ich brauche einen Arzt.
Our Expert Tip: If you have a serious condition, bring a note with key medical details in German.
Finding Pharmacies in Frankfurt
Pharmacies (Apotheken) are where youโll get over-the-counter medication and expert advice. Hereโs what to expect:
- Standard Hours: Usually open from 9 AM to 6:30 PM, with shorter hours on Saturdays.
- 24-Hour Pharmacies: Look for Notdienst-Apotheke (emergency pharmacy) online to find one open at night.
Our Expert Tip: The Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) pharmacy is open longer hours, making it a convenient option.
Staying Healthy While Exploring Frankfurt
Walking along the Main River, sampling local specialties, and adjusting to the city’s pace can take a toll. Stay healthy with these tips:
- Layer Up: Frankfurtโs weather can shift quickly, so dress accordingly.
- Go Easy on the Local Cuisine: Handkรคse mit Musik (cheese with onions) and Apfelwein (apple cider) are delicious but might not sit well if you’re not used to them.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Tap water is safe and free at many restaurants upon request.
Our Expert Tip: If you feel bloated or unwell after a meal, ask for Magen-Darm-Tropfen, a herbal digestive remedy available at pharmacies.
Managing Pre-Existing Conditions in Frankfurt
If you take medication regularly or have a medical condition, plan ahead:
- Bring Enough Medication: Keep prescriptions in their original packaging with a doctorโs note.
- Find a General Practitioner: Many English-speaking Hausรคrzte (general practitioners) are available in Frankfurt.
Our Expert Tip: University Hospital Frankfurt has an international office for foreign patients needing specialized care.
Essential Apps For Medical Help in Frankfurt
A few apps can make accessing healthcare in Frankfurt much easier:
- Air Doctor โ Find English-speaking doctors nearby.
- Google Maps โ Locate nearby hospitals and pharmacies.
Our Expert Tip: Set up these apps before you travel so theyโre ready when you need them.
Why Travel Insurance is Essential in Frankfurt
Germanyโs healthcare is excellent, but medical bills can add up quickly if youโre uninsured. Hereโs why coverage matters:
- Emergency Costs: Without insurance, treatment at private clinics can be expensive.
- Public vs. Private Hospitals: Some policies only cover public hospitals โ check before seeking care.
- Ease of Access: Keep a digital copy of your insurance details on your phone.
Our Expert Tip: EU travelers should carry their EHIC card for reduced-cost medical treatment.
Contacting Your Embassy Support in Frankfurt
If you lose medication, need hospital recommendations, or face a serious emergency, your embassy can help.
Our Expert Tip: Save your embassyโs contact info in your phone before your trip for easy access.
What to Do If You Get Sick in Frankfurt
Hereโs a quick recap before you go:
- Contact your embassy if you need additional help.
- Visit a Pharmacy (Apotheke) for minor health issues.
- Use Air-Dr or Doctolib to find a doctor quickly.
- Call 112 for emergencies or visit University Hospital Frankfurt.
- Check your travel insurance for coverage before seeking treatment.
With these tips, youโll be well-prepared to handle any health concerns while enjoying your time in Frankfurt.
About the Air Doctor App
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical advice, get prescriptions, and receive expert medical guidance while youโre in Frankfurt (and anywhere else you travel).
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Active in 85 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including pediatricians
If youโre looking for reliable, accessible, and global medical assistance, Air Doctor is the perfect choice for you. Download the app before your next trip to ensure peace of mind and access to quality healthcare, wherever your travels take you.
