How can I get an appointment with a specialist soon?

A specialist doctor is a doctor who, after completing their studies, has undergone extensive additional training in a specific field, such as skin, heart, or nerves. You need an appointment with a specialist if your general practitioner says that your symptoms require specialized knowledge or specific examinations.

Getting an appointment with a specialist can sometimes be difficult. To secure a timely appointment, you can do the following: First, call the practice and explain that you have symptoms that cannot wait. This often helps you get an appointment faster. If that doesn't work, you can call 116117. This is the appointment service of the Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians. They will help you find a suitable appointment. In urgent cases, your general practitioner can also issue a so-called referral with an urgency code. This usually allows you to receive help more quickly.

If you are unsure what to do, please ask your general practitioner's office. They often know good ways and can tell you where you can get support. Your statutory health insurance can also explain how to schedule appointments and what services are available.

You can find more information on this topic here:

• 116117 Terminservice: Arzttermine für gesetzlich Versicherte online buchen - 116117.de: 
  This page offers an online and telephone service for statutorily insured individuals, allowing you to search for and book appointments with general practitioners, specialists, or psychotherapists 24/7.
• Arztwahl und Terminsuche | gesund.bund.de:Here, among other things, you will find explanations about what a referral is, when it is necessary, how to schedule an appointment, and what rights you have in choosing a doctor.