Cardiology in Germany

Cardiology is a branch of medicine concerned with disorders of the heart. It is the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of such conditions as heart failure, coronary artery disease, congenital heart defects, and much more. Doctors who specialize in this branch of internal medicine are known as a cardiologist.

What Does Cardiology Involve?

Cardiology involves tests, including electrocardiogram to record the electrical activity of the heart, exercise test to see the changes of heart rhythm, echocardiogram that provides an ultrasound picture showing the structure of the heart, and cardiac catheterization to collect data and help relieve a blockage. There are numerous different treatments within cardiology for various different heart disorders, such as valvuloplasties, angioplasties, stenting, congenital heart defect corrections, as well as coronary thrombectomies. Nearly all treatments for heart diseases are major surgery and are performed under general anesthetic. 

How Long Should You Stay in Germany?

Your length of stay in Germany depends on which procedure you underwent. In general, you need to stay in the hospital for several days and also to stay in the country for an additional fourteen days or until your cardiologist allows you to travel home.

How Long is the Recovery Time?

The recovery period can be different from one person to another, depending on your overall health and any complications. You should expect to progressively regain your energy and go back to your normal activity level in about four to eight weeks after treatment, particularly following surgical treatments. 

What Aftercare Should You Consider?

You may need to attend regular follow-up appointments, either with your cardiologist in Germany or in your home country. You must make some lifestyle adjustments after you recover, including eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, stop smoking, and limit your alcohol intake, to prevent future heart disease or complications. Your cardiologist may recommend you to get a cardiac rehabilitation, which will improve your health after treatment and help you recover after surgery.

What is the Success Rate for Cardiology?

Generally, the success rate depends on the specific procedure and your specific condition. Cardiology has helped millions of people around the world and if performed by experts, the risk of serious complications is very low. However, just like any other treatment, there are some risks to be aware of, such as bleeding, stroke, heart rhythm problems, blood clots, infection, valve dysfunction, and death.

Are there Alternatives to Cardiology?

Those who suffer from heart disorders do not have any other alternatives besides going to a cardiologist. However, if you do not want to undergo surgery or take any medication, you need to talk to your surgeon for the best alternative for your specific case.

What Should You Expect Before and After the Procedure?

Disorders of the heart can be dangerous, life-threatening, cause painful symptoms, and interfere with your ability to perform daily activities. After you have been treated by a cardiologist, you may be cured of your disease and your symptoms are relieved. 

Cardiology in and around Germany

About Germany

Germany, a titan in Central Europe and a vital constituent of the European Union, enjoys the reputation of having the finest healthcare system across the continent. Medical tourists often choose Germany due to its unrivaled service quality over cost, with Cardiology procedures being the most in-demand.

Prices here exhibit a significant hike when compared to the neighboring countries of Poland and Hungary. Germany, despite housing just two JCI accredited facilities, places considerable trust in its local accreditation bodies.

This includes institutions such as the German Institute for Standardisation, the Telemedicine for the Mobile Society (TEMOS), and the Cooperation for Quality and Transparency in Healthcare (KTQ-GmBH). The language barrier is virtually non-existent as the majority of the doctors and medical staff exhibit proficiency in English. Beyond the capital city of Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Frankfurt are popular delectations among medical tourists.

Popular Parts of Germany

Home to an approximate 83 million inhabitants, Germany stands tall as the second most populated nation in Europe. The country presents a fascinating blend of deep-rooted history and cutting-edge technology. Visitors can pay their respects at numerous WWII memorials and museums, bask in the allure of the country's picturesque natural landscapes, or surrender to the tantalizing array of culinary delights that Germany has to offer. Truly, Germany embraces diverse interests, ensuring every traveller finds something to cherish.

• Berlin is Germany’s capital city. It is a vibrant city with diverse sights to see. Visit the glass dome of The Reichstag, take a walk through Brandenburg Gate, be inspired by Berlin Cathedral, or wander around a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Museumsinsel (Museum Island).
• Munich is home to a beautiful historic city center, futuristic drives, and outdoor fun. For a historical tour, tourists can travel to the Church of St. Peter, the city’s oldest parish church dating back six centuries. For a car lover, visit the BMW Museum to learn more about the history of BMW cars and motorcycles. For outdoor activity, tourists can surf at the Eisbach wave on the Isar river.
• Hamburg provides refreshing sea air. The city was labeled as “the gateway to the world” because it is a center of international trade. As the city revolves around water, tourists should stroll around the harbor, lay around beside the Elbe, or sail on the Outer Alster lake.
• Frankfurt am Main is the financial and business hotspot of Germany. Although it is packed with skyscrapers, the city still offers amazing architecture, a piece of history, and even a large green space in the city forest.
• Hanover calls itself as the “EXPO City” because it hosts several of the biggest exhibition in the world. The city also boasts an astonishing blend of modern and ancient. There are a number of museums and galleries, a large zoo, and innovative street art for tourists to explore.

Weather and Climate in Germany

The four distinct seasons make Germany a year-round destination for tourists. The summer starts in June and ends in August. The average temperature is 24 °C, sometimes even as high as 30 °C. People tend to enjoy outdoor activities during this season. This is also the most popular time to visit and peak travel season, so prices can be higher than usual.

Autumn graces Germany in the months of September and October. During this time, the weather is comfortably warm, closely mirroring that of summer. However, by mid-November, a notable drop in temperatures can be expected. This period is particularly popular among tourists owing to the much-celebrated Oktoberfest.

Winter in Germany, which runs from December through February, can be chilling with temperatures dropping to as low as -10°C. Yet, the festive vibrancy brought on by the Christmas season often offsets the cold. Visitors planning a trip during winter must ensure to pack ample warm clothing for a comfortable experience.

Spring in Germany marks the delightful bloom of cherry blossoms and typically spans from March through May. The transition into this season often ushers in a rapid rise in temperatures, making it a beautiful and warm period to visit.

Getting around in Germany

Frankfurt Airport is the largest airport in Germany. The airport serves domestic flights as well as international flights. It connects the country with almost every country in the world. The airport is the hub for Condor and Lufthansa. It also serves budget airlines such as Ryanair, Euro wings, Wizz Air. Düsseldorf International Airport and Munich Airport also receive their shares of international flights.

Train, bus, and taxi are the best options to get to the city center from Frankfurt Airport. A trip by train usually costs 4.65 EUR and takes around 40 minutes. Train tickets need to be punched, otherwise, you can get a 50 EUR fine. The bus costs 4.35 EUR and takes around 30 minutes. Buses that take tourists to the city center are No. 61, 77, 72, 58, 62, N81 and N7. Taxis are not very cheap, it will cost around 25 EUR and will take approximately 20 to 30 minutes to the city center.

As the creator of the first highway system, Germany has some of the best public transportation in the world. The public transportation is integrated with one ticket that gives tourists access to buses, trams, U-Bahn trains, and S-Bahn trains. A one-way fare starts from 2.90 EUR. It is better to get a one-day unlimited pass for 7 EUR or three days for 17 EUR.

Train travel is very efficient and affordable. Germany rail system has both high-speed trains and regular trains. High-speed trains are very fast but much more expensive. It’s advised to book train tickets in advance. Buses are the most cost-effective way to get around Germany although it is not as efficient as the train. Buses here are comfortable with air-conditioning and rest stops.

Taxis in Germany are expensive. All taxis are metered and start with a base fare of around 3.70 EUR. There is no Uber in the country, but tourists can use the MyTaxi App. If you want to get around the city, the best way is to rent a bicycle. Most cities are equipped with well-marked bicycle lanes.

Tourist Visas in Germany

Germany extends a cordial welcome to citizens from numerous nations, offering them visa-free entry. This privilege applies to travelers from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Israel, Japan, Poland, the United States, and Switzerland, who are invited to stay for up to 90 days without the need for a visa.

Moreover, as a member of the European Union (EU), Germany adheres to the policy of open borders with its fellow EU nations. Consequently, EU citizens can freely travel to and enter Germany without any requirement for a visa. This ease of movement provides an added advantage for those wishing to visit Germany, whether for business, leisure, or medical purposes.

Citizens of other countries need a Schengen Visa. The application for a Schengen Visa must be filed with the embassy of the country of your primary destination. It is best to always check the requirements for Germany Visa Application before applying.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: the local currency is the euro (EUR). 1 USD converts to 0.94 EUR.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are easily available across the country. The easiest way to obtain cash is to use an ATM linked to international networks. Credit cards are not widely accepted in Germany, so always make sure to carry some cash. Some hotels, shops, and restaurants will accept credit cards. Tipping 1 EUR to room cleaners or porters is common. Most people add 5% or 10% tip in restaurants and bars. Tourists can tip about 10% to taxi drivers.
3. Local Language: The official language is German. It is nice to know a little German to show respect. Many Germans in major cities and tourist areas will know a little English.
4. Local Culture and Religion: 57% of Germany’s population follows Christianity, making it the largest religion in the country. Islam is the second largest religion. Buddhism, Judaism, Hinduism are also practiced.
5. Public Holidays: Germany celebrates Christian religious holidays. The country hosts several festivals such as Maibaumaufstellung every 1st May and Oktoberfest in October.