Finding a pediatrician or "Kinderarzt" for your child is essential once you arrive. If you are in the Public Healthcare system then this can take some time so be prepared to make a lot of calls.
How it works is that just like your first point of call is the GP or Hausarzt, the same rule applies to your child. They will have their doctor called a Kinderzt and will see them as their first point of call. It is essential to clarify what the local general and emergency protocols are available for your child with their Kinderarzt. The Kinderarzt will be able to explain to you exactly how general and emergency care will work in your area. Your child will see the same Kinderarzt from birth to adolescence, at which point they can find their own GP. Like most pediatricians, the Kinderartz can prescribe medications, give specialist referrals, and they can assist you with any developmental concerns you may have, amongst other things.
The reason it is so difficult to find a Kinderarzt is because there are too few of them, with many not even taking on new patients at all. This is why I say you will call many Kinderärzte before you find one that will take your child on as a new patient. It's not personal, it's just how it is here, especially in the city.
This is why I say you will call many Kinderärzte before you find one that will take your child on as a new patient. It's not personal, it's just how it is here.
Also, be aware that they operate within zones, so if you live 10km away from the Kinderarzt they might not accept your child as a patient, which means you will need to start by calling all the Kinderarzt offices in your area first. Here is a helpful list to get started. You can also use the TK Find a Doctor tool that I talk about here. Alternatively, you can do a Google search for "Kinderarzt or Kinderärzte near me" to find some more options.
Once you have been accepted by a Kinderarzt, you will need to go in for your first appointment. The wait time for this first appointment can be weeks, also normal. If you have a non-hospital emergency or your child is sick before this appointment time, just call them and go through on the same day.
When you first meet the Kinderarzt they will ensure your child is up to date with all the necessary vaccinations that they will need to attend kindergarten and school. Be sure to take with any relevant medical history documents and previous vaccination history. The majority of Kinderarzt I have met in and around the city speak English, but you can ask the receptionist about this first to be sure. It is at this point you will be introduced to the "Yellow Book" or the "gelbe Heft". Inside this mysterious "Yellow Book" are U-Untersuchungen, also known as U-Checks or U-Examinations.
Inside this mysterious "Yellow Book" are U-Untersuchungen, also known as U-Checks or U-Examinations.
They include a series of regular health check-ups and preventive medical examinations for infants and children in Germany. The "U" stands for "Untersuchung," which means investigation or examination. These examinations are an essential part of the German healthcare system, and they are designed to ensure that children receive regular and comprehensive medical care from infancy through adolescence, promoting early detection of any health issues and providing support for optimal growth and development. U-Untersuchungen are conducted by your child's Kinderarzt and are covered by statutory health insurance in Germany. You will get the book at your first visit and start from whatever age your child is. You will need to book for each U-Check 2-3 months in advance of the recommended age.
Here is a general overview of the U-Untersuchungen schedule:
1. U1 - Within 3 to 10 days after birth The U1 examination takes place soon after the baby's birth, usually while they are still in the hospital. The Kinderarzt examines the newborn's physical condition, checks for any immediate health concerns, and provides initial guidance to parents.
2. U2 - At around 3 to 4 weeks The U2 examination occurs within the first month of the baby's life. The Kinderarzt examines the baby's growth, reflexes, and general well-being. The parents also have the opportunity to discuss any concerns they may have about their baby's health or development.
3. U3 - At around 4 to 5 months The U3 examination usually takes place when the baby is around 4 to 5 months old. During this check-up, the Kinderarzt evaluates the baby's development, motor skills, and milestones. They may also discuss nutrition and the introduction of solid foods if applicable.
4. U4 - At around 6 to 7 months The U4 examination is conducted when the child is around 6 to 7 months old. The Kinderarzt assesses the baby's physical and mental development, including their ability to sit, grasp objects, and make eye contact.
5. U5 - At around 10 to 12 months The U5 examination occurs when the child is around 10 to 12 months old. The Kinderarzt focuses on the child's motor skills, language development, and overall health. Hearing and vision tests may also be included in this examination.
6. U6 - At around 20 to 24 months The U6 examination takes place when the child is around 20 to 24 months old. The Kinderarzt examines the child's language development, social skills, and physical growth. Immunizations are often given during this check-up.
7. U7 - At around 2 to 3 years The U7 examination is conducted when the child is around 2 to 3 years old. The Kinderarzt assesses the child's language, cognitive, and social development. Physical health and growth are also evaluated.
8. U7a - At around 3.5 years The U7a examination typically takes place when the child is around 3.5 years old. This check-up is primarily focused on the child's social and emotional development, as well as their school readiness.
9. U8 - At around 4 to 5 years The U8 examination occurs when the child is around 4 to 5 years old. The Kinderarzt assesses the child's physical health, growth, and developmental milestones. Hearing and vision tests are also commonly conducted during this check-up.
10. U9 - At around 5 to 6 years The U9 examination takes place when the child is around 5 to 6 years old. The Kinderarzt evaluates the child's physical, emotional, and social development. This check-up often includes discussions about school readiness and any concerns related to the child's health or behavior.
11. U10 and U11 - During school-age years The U10 and U11 examinations occur during the school-age years, typically between the ages of 7 to 8 and 9 to 10, respectively. These check-ups focus on the child's overall health, growth, and development. They may also include discussions about school issues, nutrition, physical activity, and general well-being.
12. J1 and J2 - During adolescence The J1 and J2 examinations take place during adolescence, usually between the ages of 13 and 16-17, respectively. These check-ups focus on the child's physical development, emotional well-being, and any specific concerns related to adolescence.
It's important to note that the U-Untersuchungen schedule may vary slightly based on the specific federal state or region in Germany but once you have been given your book the exact guidelines on age will be inside. I have found these very helpful and recommend attending all U-Untersuchungen to keep an eye on your child's health and so you can discuss any questions or concerns you may have with their Kinderarzt.
In summary, once you have found a Kinderarzt for your child, they offer service for emergent, general, and preventative care. You should definitely take advantage of the comprehensive medical care they provide. However, be prepared to search to find one when you first arrive and always expect to wait at least 30min to a 1hr at your appointments. Due to the sheer number of patients they have, they are always running late.
*All information sources are linked directly in the post.
*All information is provided to the best of our knowledge as of February 2024, but we are not liable for its accuracy or completeness.
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