Travel costs to the doctor: when the insurer pays for the taxi
Anyone who is ill cannot always get to treatment themselves. But the health insurer does not automatically pay travel costs; for outpatient appointments in particular, strict requirements apply. With the right prescription and approval it works anyway.
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What you should do now
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1. Get a prescription
Have the medical transport prescribed by a doctor (with justification of the necessity).
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2. Get prior approval
Submit the prescription to the health insurer for approval, ideally before the trip.
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3. Keep the receipt
Keep receipts and submit them for reimbursement (minus the co-payment).
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4. Object if refused
If the insurer refuses, you can lodge an objection within one month (§ 84 SGG).
Frequently asked questions
Does the health insurer pay for the taxi to the doctor?
For outpatient treatment only in exceptional cases and usually only after prior approval (§ 60 SGB V), for example with certain ongoing treatments such as dialysis or chemotherapy or with severe mobility impairment (for example the aG, Bl, H markers or a corresponding care level). Trips to inpatient treatment are generally covered.
What must I observe so the costs are covered?
Have the trip prescribed by a doctor and submit the prescription to the insurer for approval, ideally before the trip. Keep the receipts. The statutory co-payment remains. If coverage is refused, you can lodge an objection within one month.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.