When it is responsible and how to reach it
Many people become ill in the evening or on weekends. Fever, pain, or other complaints often occur precisely when the family doctor's office is already closed. In such situations, many search for "medical on-call service Berlin" or wonder where to turn outside regular office hours.
The medical on-call service is an important part of medical care. It ensures that patients can receive medical assessment even outside regular practice hours.
This article explains how the on-call service works, when it is responsible, and when other care options are more appropriate.
What is the medical on-call service?
The medical on-call service provides outpatient medical care when family doctor offices are closed. This includes evenings, nights, weekends, and public holidays.
It is responsible for acute, but not life-threatening complaints that require medical evaluation. The on-call service is part of statutory health insurance coverage and helps to relieve the burden on emergency rooms.
Telephone number of the medical on-call service
The nationwide uniform telephone number is 116 117. This number also applies to the medical on-call service in Berlin.
Through this hotline, patients receive a medical initial assessment as well as information about on-call practices and appropriate care facilities.
In life-threatening situations, the emergency number 112 continues to apply.
When is the on-call service responsible?
The medical on-call service helps with complaints that require medical examination but do not pose an immediate threat to life. These include, for example, severe colds or influenza, fever, gastrointestinal disorders, acute pain, urinary tract infections, or worsening of chronic diseases.
In these cases, medical examination is advisable, but emergency services are generally not required.
When should you call the emergency number 112?
The emergency number 112 is intended for life-threatening situations. These include, among others, shortness of breath, unconsciousness, severe chest pain with suspected heart attack, stroke symptoms such as paralysis or speech disorders, and severe injuries.
In such cases, emergency services must be called immediately.
Treatment at an on-call practice
In many regions, treatment takes place through so-called on-call practices. These are often located near hospitals or medical centers.
There, patients can appear without an appointment and be medically examined. If medically necessary, medications can be prescribed, prescriptions issued, or a medical certificate provided. Depending on occupancy, waiting times may occur.
House visit by an on-call physician
In certain situations, an on-call physician can also make a house call. This is particularly useful if mobility is limited, there is a strong feeling of illness, or elderly or care-dependent persons are affected.
The physician examines the patient on-site and then decides on further treatment. You can find more about our services here.
How long does it take for an on-call physician to arrive?
Many people wonder how long it takes for an on-call physician to arrive. The duration depends on various factors, including time of day, day of week, current workload, and distance to the location.
Particularly on weekends or holidays, waiting times can be longer, as many family doctor offices are closed.
Difference between on-call service and emergency room
Many patients are unsure whether they should visit a hospital emergency room or contact the on-call service.
As a general rule: The on-call service is responsible for acute, but stable complaints, such as colds, fever, or gastrointestinal infections. The emergency room, on the other hand, is intended for severe injuries or life-threatening illnesses, such as suspected heart attack or serious accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
The medical on-call service can issue a medical certificate if medical work inability exists. Prescriptions can also be issued if medications are medically necessary.
The on-call service is generally also responsible for children. Additionally, many regions have specialized pediatric on-call services.
Why the on-call service is important
The medical on-call service ensures that medical help is available outside regular office hours. At the same time, it prevents emergency rooms from becoming overwhelmed by less urgent cases.
A correct assessment of your own complaints helps you choose the appropriate level of care.
Conclusion
The medical on-call service in Berlin is the right place to contact for acute, but not life-threatening complaints outside regular office hours.
Through the telephone number 116 117, patients receive initial medical guidance as well as information on further care. For severe or life-threatening symptoms, however, the emergency number 112 should always be called.
Note on medical care in Berlin
If you need medical help urgently in Berlin and there is no life-threatening situation, you can reach the private medical on-call service of RAB Berlin daily between 6 and 24 o'clock by phone at 030 550 77 870.
Alternatively, you can book your appointment directly online.
As a rule, the house visit takes place within 60–90 minutes.