Many German doctors offer Sprechstunde, a walk-in consultation time where you can see a doctor without booking an appointment (Termin). For international students, this is often the easiest and fastest way to get medical help when something urgent comes up.
This guide explains when and how to use Sprechstunde, what to expect, and how it differs from normal appointments.
What Is Sprechstunde?
Sprechstunde means “consultation hours.”
During this time, you can simply walk into the clinic, check in at the reception, and wait to be seen. No advance booking is required.
Typical times:
• Morning: e.g., 8:00–10:00
• Afternoon: e.g., 14:00–16:00
Each clinic has its own schedule, so always check their website or call.
When You Should Use Sprechstunde
Sprechstunde is best for situations that are urgent but not emergencies, such as:
1. Sudden fever, cold, flu symptoms
2. Stomach issues
3. Skin irritation or allergic reaction
4. Needing a sick note (Krankschreibung) quickly
5. Getting a referral (Überweisung)
6. Minor infections or short-term problems
Many students use Sprechstunde because waiting weeks for a normal appointment is unrealistic.
When You Should NOT Use Sprechstunde
Avoid Sprechstunde for:
• Long-term or complicated health problems
• Mental health appointments
• Procedures that require preparation
• Vaccinations (unless the clinic says walk-in is OK)
• Anything requiring detailed consultation or planning
For these, a Termin (appointment) is better.
What To Bring
Always bring:
• Your health insurance card (Versichertenkarte)
• Passport or ID (first visit only)
• Any medical documents you already have
• List of medications (optional but helpful)
You do not need:
• A referral (usually)
• Extra money (public insurance covers the visit)
What Happens During a Walk-In Visit
1.You arrive at the clinic during Sprechstunde.
2.Tell the receptionist:
“Guten Tag, ich bin hier zur Sprechstunde.”
3.Hand over your insurance card.
4.Tell them briefly what symptoms you have.
5.You wait to be called—waiting time varies.
6.Doctor examines you.
7.You receive prescriptions, referrals, or a sick note if needed.
Waiting time can be 20 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how busy the clinic is.
Why Waiting Times Are Long
Sprechstunde is unpredictable because:
• Patients arrive without warning
• Doctors must handle the most urgent cases first
• Only one or two doctors may be working
• Some visits take longer than expected
Tip: Arrive early, ideally 5–10 minutes before Sprechstunde begins.
Akutsprechstunde (Acute Consultation)
Some clinics offer a special version called Akutsprechstunde, meant for more urgent but non-emergency problems:
• Sudden infection
• High fever
• Severe cough
• Ear pain
• Strong skin reaction
It is still walk-in, but priority is given to people with acute symptoms.
Costs and Insurance Coverage
If you have public health insurance:
• Sprechstunde is free
• Consultation is free
• Referrals are free
• Sick notes are free
• Medications usually cost €5–€10 co-payment
The only time you must pay full price is if you accidentally go to a Privatpraxis (private-only clinic). These do not accept public insurance.
Sprechstunde vs. Emergency Room
Sprechstunde is for:
• Mild to moderate illnesses
• Situations that cannot wait several days
• Quick check-ups
Emergency Room (Notaufnahme) is for:
• Severe pain
• Breathing difficulty
• Serious injuries
• Heavy bleeding
• Loss of consciousness
Emergency treatment is always covered by insurance.
Common Mistakes Students Make
• Thinking walk-in means “fast” (it usually doesn’t)
• Forgetting to bring the insurance card
• Leaving the clinic during the wait and missing their turn
• Going to a private doctor by accident
• Expecting English everywhere
• Using emergency rooms for minor symptoms
Avoiding these mistakes will make the process smoother.
Tips to Make Your Visit Easier
• Arrive early at the start of Sprechstunde
• Keep your explanation short and clear
• Bring something to read or do while waiting
• Ask for an English-speaking doctor if needed
• If unsure, call the clinic and ask:
“Wann ist Ihre Sprechstunde?”
Summary
Sprechstunde is one of the easiest ways for students to access healthcare in Germany.
It’s flexible, free, and ideal for sudden illnesses or urgent questions.
By understanding what to bring, when to use it, and what to expect, international students can navigate the German medical system confidently.