Our health is the most valuable asset we have in our lives. So we should protect it. And the best way to do that is with very good health insurance. A big factor: How much will the health insurance cost me per month? Experts assume that premiums will rise considerably over the next few years. It is therefore important to remain flexible and keep an eye on the monthly costs of your insurance. In addition to affordable premiums, it is particularly important that the insurance is tailored to our needs. Many insurers offer extra services such as osteopathy or special preventive care - it's worth taking a closer look. As you can see, there is a lot to consider when choosing the right health insurance company or switching to a suitable alternative. That's why we've listed the most important questions and points for you here - so that you can stay healthy and fit for as long as possible.

Can I really save money if I want to change health insurance provider?

There is a regular contribution rate that applies to all health insurance companies. It is 14.6 percent, and this is the minimum everyone has to pay. For employees, the employer pays half of this contribution rate. However, the insurance companies also charge individually determined additional contributions. These are borne by the insured person alone. This means that you can also save a lot each year with lower additional contributions. For comparison: the most expensive nationwide health insurance fund has a contribution rate of 16.3 percent (Viactiv), while the cheapest is only 15.19 percent (hkk). Depending on your gross monthly salary, you could save several hundred euros a year by switching.

I am currently undergoing treatment, can I still switch?

Switching health insurance companies is completely unproblematic and risk-free for you as an insured person. The only requirement is that you have already been insured with the health insurance company for 18 months. But even if you haven't been with them that long, you can still switch. But only if the insurance company increases the contribution rate. Then you have a special right of termination. Ongoing medical treatment is also not an obstacle. Even if something goes wrong when you switch, you will automatically remain insured with your old health insurance company.

Can I simply cancel and join the other health insurance fund?

Yes, the notice period is two months to the end of the month. The decisive factor is the date on which your insurance company receives your notice of termination. You will then receive a confirmation of termination within two weeks - your previous insurer is obliged to do this. You send this confirmation together with your application to the new insurer. You inform your employer with the certificate of your optional insurance.

What should I pay particular attention to when choosing my health insurance company?

There are websites on the internet where you can compare the individual health insurance companies (e.g. www.krankenkassen.de). Make sure you look out for extra services that are of interest to you and whether the health insurance company is easy to contact personally. By the way: If you attach particular importance to certain benefits that your insurer does not offer, it is worth asking. In some cases, especially if you are otherwise thinking about switching, the insurers are prepared to accommodate your wishes as a gesture of goodwill. Just ask.