Medical systems differ significantly around the world. It is therefore difficult to find your way around, especially at critical times. On this page we give you an overview of the most important things to bear in mind during your stay in Konstanz.
Doctors in Konstanz & making appointments
There are many doctors in Konstanz who speak other languages next to German. This can often be found on the website of the respective doctor's office.
1. Making an appointment
The usual way to visit a doctor is by making an appointment. Some practices make appointments online, but most only by telephone. If you do not speak German well, speak slowly and clearly in English on the phone. The practice assistant may not speak English as well as the doctor.
2. Emergency visit
In the event of an emergency, you can also go to the doctor directly: An emergency must always be treated. In the case of a spontaneous visit, however, you may have to wait several hours. Here, too, it is advisable to call in advance and make an appointment.
Emergency and hospital
In the event of a serious emergency requiring immediate treatment, an ambulance should be called or you should drive yourself to hospital. But what exactly is an emergency?
The hospital is not always the best place to go for acute illnesses. There are extremely long waiting times in emergency rooms and there are various ways to relieve the burden on hospitals and sometimes receive treatment more quickly.
General practitioners as the first port of call:
Much of what is done in day clinics or hospitals in other countries is done by general practitioners in Germany. For specific problems, they also refer patients to specialists. Many medications for common infections are also available from pharmacies without a prescription. It might be worth asking there.
At night or on the weekend:
Call 116117: The emergency number connects you to an emergency doctor who you can speak to by phone. This helps to bridge the first moment and decide how to proceed.