Is Physiotherapy Covered by Health Insurance in Germany?

Last checked 2 November 2026. Rules for adults.

Quick answer: Yes, with a doctor's prescription. In 2026, adults with public health insurance pay 10 % of the cost plus EUR 10 per prescription. From 1 January 2027, the per-prescription amount rises to EUR 15 by law. Private health insurance follows the tariff. For the wider picture, see what private health insurance covers.

What does public health insurance pay for physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy belongs to the Heilmittel (therapeutic treatments such as physiotherapy, massage and baths). Under section 32 SGB V, you are entitled to them unless the law excludes them, and you need a doctor's prescription. Adults (18 and over) pay a co-payment under section 61. Children and teenagers under 18 stay exempt. For long-term needs, the insurer must decide within four weeks, and the request counts as approved if it does not.

How much will the co-payment rise in 2027?

The Beitragssatzstabilisierungsgesetz (BStabG, a law to stabilise public health insurance contribution rates), dated 24 July 2026 and published in Bundesgesetzblatt 2026 I Nr. 228, raises the per-prescription amount from EUR 10 to EUR 15. The 10 % share stays. Here is an example with six sessions and EUR 150 total cost. It is a model, not a price list.

Source: section 61 SGB V, Bundesgesetzblatt 2026 I Nr. 228 (recht.bund.de), Techniker Krankenkasse, 6 October 2026. The amended section 61 sentence 3 reads 10 percent of the costs plus EUR 15 per prescription (in force 1 January 2027).

The annual burden limit stays at 2 % of gross income (1 % for chronically ill people). Once you reach it, you pay no further co-payments that year.

Does private health insurance cover physiotherapy?

It follows the tariff, which may reimburse a percentage, limit the amount per year or apply maximum rates from a fee schedule. Some tariffs cap reimbursement at the maximum rates of a fee schedule, so read that clause. Most tariffs expect a doctor's prescription, so check yours. We print no standard percentage, because none is sourced.

What about Heilpraktiker and osteopathy?

Many private tariffs reimburse non-medical practitioners (Heilpraktiker) and osteopathy at 50, 75 or 100 %, while some exclude them. Conditions vary a lot. Our guide on alternative medicine and Heilpraktiker coverage explains the options.

What should you check in a private tariff?

Check the reimbursement percentage, the annual cap, any maximum rates, whether a prescription is required, the Heilpraktiker clause and the direct-access wording. 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.