Is a Dermatologist Covered by Health Insurance in Germany?

Last checked 2 November 2026. Rules for adults.

Quick answer: Yes. Medically needed dermatologist visits are covered by public and private health insurance. In 2026, publicly insured people can generally book directly, but appointments can take time. Skin cancer screening is covered from age 35 every two years. Cosmetic treatments are usually not covered. For the wider picture, see what private health insurance covers.

Is a dermatologist covered by public health insurance?

Yes, when the visit is medically needed. Publicly insured people can currently see specialists directly. The exception is a GP-centred care contract (Hausarztzentrierte Versorgung), where you need a referral for most specialists. Check which model you are in. Cosmetic treatments such as fillers or laser are usually not covered, so ask for the price in writing before you agree.

How do you get a dermatology appointment faster?

The regional Associations of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians run an appointment service (116117) that must find a specialist appointment within four weeks (section 75 SGB V). For dermatology, it mediates only with a referral, even though you can book a practice yourself without one. Your GP can issue the referral.

Is skin cancer screening covered?

Yes. Section 25 SGB V provides cancer screening and leaves age and frequency to the Federal Joint Committee (G-BA). Its rule is skin screening from age 35 every two years, done by trained GPs and dermatologists. The G-BA must review skin-cancer screening and the age limits by the end of 2027 (section 25 paragraph 4 SGB V). Some insurers cover it earlier under regional contracts. Check yours.

Source: section 25 SGB V, G-BA press release of 16 November 2007, section 75 SGB V.

Is a dermatologist covered by private health insurance?

Yes, according to the tariff. Private patients see specialists directly and submit invoices, which the insurer reimburses at the tariff percentage. Cosmetic treatments are excluded as a rule. Our guide on specialist access with private health insurance covers the details. Surveys across several specialties find that publicly insured people wait longer on average. Figures differ widely, and the doctors' association reports the gap has narrowed. No dermatology-specific number exists, so we print none.

What can a visit cost, and who pays?

No price list is sourced, so this table shows who pays, not how much.

Source: sections 25 and 75 SGB V, tariff terms. Ask for the price in writing before any self-pay treatment.

What should you check in a private tariff?

Check the reimbursement percentage, direct specialist access, cost approval above a threshold, and the cosmetic and self-pay exclusions. The application includes health questions. A free consultation explains how they work for you.

Want a free check of your options?

Private health insurance suits people up to about 45 best, and the longer you stay in Germany, the better it gets. If you are an employee above the income threshold (EUR 77,400 in 2026, EUR 84,150 in 2027 by cabinet decision of 7 October 2026, Bundesrat approval pending), or self-employed or a freelancer, request a free quote. Below the threshold, see public health insurance options. You can also read what private health insurance covers in full.

Myhealthcarebroker is an independent insurance broker. This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and tariffs change, so confirm details before you decide.