Promoting good health and preventing illnesses before they occur are important objectives of healthcare policy in Germany. Preventive healthcare resources and services for women, men and children such as protective vaccinations and regular early recognition and preventive check-ups help this. The costs of these are covered by the statutory health insurance funds.

• Check-ups for children: A significant part of prevention are the regular early detection check-ups known as "U-Untersuchungen" (in German only). "U-Untersuchungen" are check-ups to examine the child's general state of health and development for their age (e.g. their hearing, sight or linguistic development).
  
  
• Check-ups for early detection of cancer for adults: In Germany, there is a statutory early detection programme for cancer for women aged 20 years and above and men aged 35 years and above. The earlier the disease is detected, the better the treatment options and the better the outlook for recovery. Your family doctor (a doctor in general practice) will be happy to advise you.
  
  
• 35+ Check-up: This check-up is for early detection of, in particular, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus and kidney diseases. It is recommended every two years for men and women aged 35 years and above. Your family doctor (a doctor in general practice) will be happy to advise you.
  
  
• Preventive dental check-ups for children and adults: Dental check-ups every six months are a major precautionary measure for the prevention and early detection of diseases of the teeth, mouth and jaw.
  
  
• Protective vaccinations for children and adults: Vaccination is one of the most effective methods in preventing infectious diseases.
  
  
• Preventive healthcare for pregnant women: Expectant mothers are intensively monitored through their pregnancy and beyond by their gynaecologist or midwife and are entitled to regular preventive healthcare check-ups. It allows any health problems to be detected and treated in good time.