Famous for its Black Forest, Bavarian Castles and vibrant cities, Germany has long been an ideal tourist spot. Not only do its cities provide insight to the countries contributions to art, architecture, music and automobiles, but they also offer great shopping and an exciting nightlife. Another distinguishing feature in Germany's tourism trade is its renown for the highest quality medical care on the planet.

    In addition to the beauty, moderate climate and cultural wonders that Germany offers to tourists, it has one of the best health care systems in the world. People from across the globe stream into Germany to take advantage of high-quality medical services and cutting-edge medical equipment. The technical advances offered by German hospitals make the healthcare system of Germany a primary choice for medical tourists from countries such as United States and Britain.

     According to the World Health Organization, Germany has an average of 368 physicians per 100,000 people. German physicians are required to undergo special training programs and procedures before they are qualified as experts in their respective fields. German law requires all hospitals meet highest quality standards and undergo stringent government surveillance. The German Institute for Standardization, the Telemedicine for the Mobile Society and the Cooperation for Quality and Transparency in Healthcare all assign credits and certifications to hospitals. An estimated total of 50,000 medical tourists sought medical care in the country per year, and the number is growing..

     Leading hospitals for medical tourism in Germany include University Medical Center Freiburg, considered one of the largest medical centers in the world. To date, among its faculty, there have been five Nobel Prize Winners in the science of medicine. Two other leading hospitals in Germany are DRK Kliniken Berlin and the Klinikum Chemnitz, both of which are accredited by JCI and considered two of the most influential hospitals in terms of advanced medical care. Germany’s famous medical care facilities shouldn’t overshadow other hospitals and clinics. They are held to the same high standards and often offer procedures for lower costs than the big name hospitals.

     In addition to the high quality medical services offered by German hospitals, spa-like recovery facilities are also available for patients after medical procedures. Some of the most appealing of these are found in Germany’s hilltop towns, as they offer serenity, fresh mountain air and a gorgeous environment as well as cutting-edge medical equipment and skilled medical practitioners

     Visas are not required for the US, Canada and most European countries, and only an identity card is required for citizens of EU member countries. As part of the EU, Germany uses the euro for currency. The primary language is German, but English is widely spoken and de rigueur in the medical industry. The voltage is 220-240, as is the norm for Europe, so American and Canadian travelers will need a voltage converter/adaptor (not just an adaptor). Certified German tourist guides are available at airports.