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Germany: Patient rights

In Germany, patient rights were brought together in the Civil Code (BGB) by the 2013 Patients’ Rights Act.

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark navy background, a document and heart on a scale.
Figure 1.Consent — Germany: Patient rights

01Short answer

The doctor must explain the diagnosis, treatment, benefits and risks to you clearly and in good time (Aufklärung), and your consent is needed for every treatment. You have the right to see your patient file (Patientenakte) and get a copy. If you are worried, talk to your team first; many hospitals have a complaints service or a patient advocate (Patientenfürsprecher). If you suspect a treatment error, your health insurance fund can help too.

02Simple explanation

Aufklärung: explanation.

Consent: for every treatment.

Patientenakte: right to a copy.

03Scientific explanation

Law: the rights are set out in the BGB section on treatment contracts.

Privacy: health data are protected by EU data-protection rules.

04What happens in the body?

Consent

After the explanation the decision is yours; ask for time to think.

Your file

You can ask for a copy of your file.

On a dark navy background, a folder with a key.
Figure 2.Records — Germany: Patient rights

Patient advocate

The advocate helps as an independent mediator.

On a dark navy background, a path to a door.
Figure 3.Complaints path — Germany: Patient rights

05Your rights

Four steps.

Information — Ask.1InformationAsk.
Consent — Give or decline.2ConsentGive or decline.
Records — See them.3RecordsSee them.
Concern — Raise it.4ConcernRaise it.
RespectYour voice is heard.
ControlThe decision is yours.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
ConsentAfter the explanation the decision is yours; ask for time to think.
Your fileYou can ask for a copy of your file.
Patient advocateThe advocate helps as an independent mediator.

07Key terms

Aufklärung
Explanation.
Einwilligung
Consent.
Patientenakte
Patient file.
Patientenfürsprecher
Patient advocate.

08Key points

  • Ask again if unclear.
  • Ask for an interpreter.
  • Check your records.
  • Raise worries early.
  • Bring someone close.

09Frequently asked questions

Is an interpreter free?

Rules vary; ask the hospital and your fund.

Who can see my data?

Only those involved in your care and people you allow.

Will a complaint affect my care?

No, complaining is your right.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Is an interpreter free?

  2. Who can see my data?

  3. Will a complaint affect my care?

My questions

12Sources

  1. Krebsinformationsdienst (DKFZ). Official website (in German)
  2. Deutsche Leukämie- & Lymphom-Hilfe (DLH). Official website (in German)
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Physical Activity and Cancer
  4. Türk Hematoloji Derneği (Turkish Society of Hematology). Official website (in Turkish)
  5. Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye. Official website
  6. Social Security Institution of Türkiye (SGK). General health insurance (Genel Sağlık Sigortası, in Turkish)
  7. Ministry of Health of Türkiye. Aile hekimliği (in Turkish)
  8. Ministry of Health of Türkiye. e-Nabız personal health record
  9. European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies (WHO). Türkiye: health system information and resources
  10. İstanbul University. Official website
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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