Doctor density is particularly high in Berlin nationwide - Germany's medical workforce reveals stark regional disparities in doctor density

A new report highlights stark differences in medical workforce distribution across Germany. Berlin and Hamburg lead with the highest densities of doctors and psychotherapists, while Brandenburg and the Saarland lag behind. The data also reveals variations in age and gender among medical professionals in different regions.

Hamburg stands out with the highest concentration of medical practitioners, boasting around 315 doctors and psychotherapists per 100,000 residents. Berlin follows closely, with roughly 303 per 100,000. The capital also has a strong presence of general practitioners, at about 72 per 100,000 people, alongside 11 paediatricians and 20 gynaecologists for the same population size.

In contrast, Brandenburg, which borders Berlin, has the lowest density of medical professionals in the country—just 200 per 100,000 residents. The Saarland, meanwhile, records the smallest proportion of female doctors and psychotherapists, at 47.5 percent. Age distribution among physicians also varies significantly. The Saarland has the highest share of doctors over 65, at around 18 percent. Berlin, too, has a notable proportion of older practitioners, with nearly 16 percent aged 65 or above. Additionally, Berlin leads in gender balance, with around 60 percent of its physicians being female—the highest rate in Germany.

The figures underscore regional disparities in healthcare access and workforce demographics. Hamburg and Berlin maintain a strong supply of medical professionals, while Brandenburg and the Saarland face greater challenges in both density and diversity. These trends may influence future healthcare policies and resource allocation across the country.