Once a baby has arrived, routine healthcare becomes part of everyday life. In Germany it follows a fairly regular pattern, and this page outlines the four subjects that the original guide treated under baby healthcare in Frankfurt.
Vaccinations and immunisation
Children in Germany receive vaccinations on a schedule recommended by health authorities, and the doctor records them in a vaccination booklet. If your child was vaccinated elsewhere, bring that record to the first appointment so the paediatrician can compare it with local recommendations. Rules and recommendations change, so ask your doctor for the current schedule.
Scheduled medical checks
Babies and toddlers are offered a series of preventive check-ups, called U-examinations, at set ages. Appointments are made with a paediatrician, and results are usually written in the same booklet used for vaccinations. Keep the booklet safe, as kindergartens and schools often ask to see it.
After-hours children’s clinics
When a child becomes unwell in the evening, at the weekend or on a public holiday, regular practices are closed. Some hospitals and on-call services run clinics for children outside normal hours. Find out in advance where the closest one is and keep the number somewhere you can find quickly.
Over-the-counter medicines and pharmacies
Many medicines for children are sold in pharmacies (Apotheken), often with advice from the pharmacist. Pharmacies take turns to provide emergency service at night, and a sign in the window shows the nearest open one.
Keep in mind
This page is general orientation, not medical advice. For specific questions, speak to a paediatrician, and in an emergency call the emergency number. See also the health and medical overview and having a baby.