How do I get a specialist (Facharzt) appointment? Do I need a referral (Überweisung)?

You can see many specialists without a referral (Überweisung) from your Hausarzt (family doctor). This can include, for example, an endocrinologist. But some practices require a referral, so ask on the phone.

With a referral from your Hausarzt, you can request a specialist appointment through the 116117 appointment service. A referral sometimes gets you an appointment faster. Having blood tests done at your Hausarzt first and bringing the results can also speed things up.

On Doctolib (an online booking platform) you can search by specialty and language. English-speaking doctors are also an option. A few of the doctors it suggests turn out to be internists (Internist), so check the specialty.

In fields like neurology or endocrinology, appointments are very hard to find, and harder still if you want a Turkish-speaking doctor. A practice may never reply to your email.

In some cases your doctor can refer you to a specialist department at a hospital, such as the relevant centre at the Charité.