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ARAG vs. Other Private Health Insurers

CriteriaARAGAllianzDebekaHanseMerkur
Plan FlexibilityHighly customizable plans Wide range but complex structures Very rigid, few customization options Balanced between price & benefits
DeductiblesFully adjustable Structured deductible options Limited flexibility Flexible deductible choices
Coverage QualityHigh, including alternative medicine Comprehensive but expensive Conservative, close to public coverage Good balance of price & service
Chief Physician CareStandard in all plansStandard in premium plans Partially includedAvailable as an add-on
Premium RefundsYes, up to 2 monthly premiums + €900Yes, but conditional Low refundsYes, up to 3 months
Premium StabilityVery stable due to modern calculations Has seen increases in recent years Historically stable, but partially harsh recent increasesModerate stability
Customer ServiceDirect English support, fast response Good service but complex processes Slow processing times Easy to reach customer service
Digital ServicesModern app-based customer portal, paperless processModerate digitalizationVery outdated systemFairly digitalized
Target AudienceExpats, self-employed, high earners, Civil servantsCivil servants, employees, self-employedCivil servants, familiesSelf-employed, employees
Comparison table showing the main differences between Germany’s public (GKV) and major private (PKV) health insurers in 2025.

Drawing on years of experience in the German private health insurance market, I firmly believe that ARAG’s innovative approach offers the best solution for expats and self-employed professionals. With flexible pricing and stable premiums, ARAG not only provides exceptional value but also ensures that customers benefit from dedicated English support—an essential factor for international clients. In contrast, while Allianz offers comprehensive coverage, its higher costs can be prohibitive, and Debeka’s slow processing and inflexible options often leave clients wanting more. Additionally, HanseMerkur stands out for its balanced approach, delivering a well-balanced price-performance mix that appeals to those seeking reliable coverage without compromising affordability. Overall, ARAG’s modern, customer-centric service makes it a top choice for anyone looking for affordable, efficient private health insurance in Germany.