Finding the Best Hospitals in Germany with MyHospitalNow

Hospitals in Germany

For anyone in need of medical assistance or planning a visit to Germany, navigating the healthcare landscape offers access to one of the most highly regarded and efficient systems globally. Renowned for its precision, innovation, and commitment to patient care, Germany’s healthcare infrastructure stands as a benchmark of excellence. Whether you’re a local resident, an expatriate, or an international visitor seeking specialized treatment, MyHospitalNow exists to bridge the information gap. We serve as the world’s most definitive platform for discovering, evaluating, and connecting with hospitals in Germany.

We understand that even in a highly organized system, finding accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information can be challenging. MyHospitalNow is dedicated to providing clarity and confidence, guiding you through Germany’s sophisticated healthcare system. We’re committed to offering an unparalleled database of verified, current information, all within a user-friendly design. It’s time to confidently navigate Germany’s hospital landscape with MyHospitalNow as your trusted partner, ensuring peace of mind when it matters most.

Understanding Germany’s Healthcare System: A Patient’s Guide

Germany boasts a universal multi-payer healthcare system, a robust and highly efficient model that ensures comprehensive coverage for its residents. This system is primarily funded by a combination of statutory health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung – GKV) and private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung – PKV).

Overview of Germany’s Healthcare Infrastructure

The German healthcare system is characterized by its dual structure and high standards:

  • Universal Multi-Payer System: This unique system combines mandatory public insurance with an option for private insurance, ensuring broad coverage.
  • Statutory Health Insurance (GKV): This is the most common form of health insurance, covering approximately 90% of German residents. It is mandatory for salaried workers and employees earning below a certain income threshold (which is €73,800 per annum in 2025). Contributions are deducted from salaries and jointly paid by employees and employers. GKV covers a wide range of essential medical treatments, including inpatient and outpatient care, medication, basic dental care, medical aids, and maternity services. For GKV members, medical bills are typically covered directly by the insurance fund, meaning patients usually do not pay upfront.
  • Private Health Insurance (PKV): This option is primarily available to self-employed individuals, civil servants, and higher-income earners (those earning above the GKV threshold). PKV offers more extensive coverage, which can include private rooms in hospitals, direct access to senior physicians, and broader benefits for dental and alternative therapies. PKV members usually pay their medical bills upfront and then seek reimbursement from their insurance provider.
  • Patient Choice: Germany’s healthcare system is highly consumer-oriented, allowing patients a significant degree of freedom in choosing their doctors and hospitals. GKV members can choose from doctors approved by their sickness fund.
  • Co-payments: While comprehensive, the system does involve relatively low co-payments for certain services, such as medications or short hospital stays.

Key Healthcare Regions and Cities

Hospitals in Germany are distributed across the country, with major concentrations of world-class facilities in its largest cities, often linked to renowned universities:

  • Berlin: The capital city is home to Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, one of Europe’s largest and most prestigious university hospitals, with a vast network of clinics and research institutes.
  • Munich: Features two leading university hospitals: Klinikum der Universität München (LMU) and University Hospital Rechts der Isar (Technical University of Munich), both known for advanced medical care and research.
  • Heidelberg: Renowned globally for Heidelberg University Hospital, particularly for its excellence in oncology and transplantation medicine.
  • Hamburg: Hosts the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), a modern and interdisciplinary university hospital.
  • Essen: Home to Universitätsklinikum Essen, a maximum care hospital serving the Ruhr Metropolitan Region.
  • Frankfurt am Main, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Hanover, Freiburg, Regensburg, Erlangen, Würzburg, Bonn, Mainz, Leipzig, Stuttgart: These cities also boast significant university hospitals and specialized clinics that contribute to Germany’s high healthcare standards.

MyHospitalNow helps you navigate this extensive network, allowing you to search and filter facilities by location, type, and the specific services they offer, ensuring you can find suitable care wherever you are in Germany.

Accessing Healthcare as a Visitor or Resident

  • For Residents (GKV): Upon registration with a statutory health insurance fund, you receive an electronic health card. This card is presented at every doctor’s visit or hospital admission, and the costs are directly settled with your insurance.
  • For Residents (PKV): If you have private health insurance, you typically pay for services upfront and then submit the bills to your insurance provider for reimbursement.
  • For EU/EEA Citizens: If you are from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides access to state-provided healthcare during your temporary stay under the same conditions as German residents. This means you will receive medically necessary treatment.
  • For Other International Visitors: Comprehensive travel health insurance is absolutely essential. Many private clinics in Germany specifically cater to international patients, offering services that can be directly billed to international insurance providers or paid for out-of-pocket.
  • Emergency Services:
    • For acute, life-threatening emergencies, dial 112 (the European emergency number). This connects you directly to emergency medical services (Rettungsdienst).
    • For non-life-threatening but urgent medical issues outside of regular doctor’s office hours (nights, weekends, public holidays), you can call the nationwide on-call medical service at 116 117.
    • You can also go directly to the emergency center (Rettungsstelle) of the nearest hospital for acute illnesses or injuries if you are able to walk.
  • Referral System: While you can often go directly to a specialist, many Germans first consult their family doctor (Allgemeinmediziner or Hausarzt). The family doctor can then coordinate treatment or refer you to a specialist or hospital. This “gatekeeper” system helps streamline care, though direct access to specialists is generally possible for both GKV and PKV patients, sometimes with longer wait times for GKV patients for non-urgent specialist appointments.

MyHospitalNow provides essential contact details and information on facility types, helping you understand your options and plan your visit effectively within Germany’s comprehensive healthcare framework.

Discovering Leading Hospitals in Germany Through MyHospitalNow

MyHospitalNow is your dedicated tool for identifying and learning about the leading hospitals in Germany. We meticulously compile information to help you make the best choice, providing insights into each institution’s services, location, and type. Our platform helps you cut through the noise and find the most suitable medical care.

Here’s a glimpse into some of the prominent facilities you can discover through MyHospitalNow, showcasing the diverse range of medical care available across Germany:

Spotlight on Leading Facilities

While MyHospitalNow features an extensive directory of hospitals in Germany, these institutions stand out for their significant contributions to the nation’s healthcare:

  • Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin:
    • Location: Berlin, the capital city.
    • Type: One of Europe’s largest and most prestigious university hospitals, it is a public, teaching, and research-intensive institution.
    • Key Specialties: Charité encompasses approximately 100 clinics and research institutes, covering virtually all medical and surgical specialties. It is consistently ranked among the best globally (e.g., Newsweek has ranked it among the top five hospitals in the world and the best in Europe). It is particularly strong in Hepatology and Gastroenterology (including complex liver diseases and liver transplantation), Orthopedics (renowned for joint replacement surgery and sports medicine), and Neurosurgery (excelling in complex spinal reconstructions and brain tumor treatments).
    • Noteworthy: As a leading academic medical center, Charité is a major hub for medical education, training thousands of healthcare professionals, and conducting extensive clinical research, contributing to significant medical advancements.
    • Explore the full profile of Charité on MyHospitalNow for detailed services and contact information.
  • Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg (Heidelberg University Hospital):
    • Location: Heidelberg.
    • Type: A renowned university hospital, operating as a public, teaching, and research institution.
    • Key Specialties: Heidelberg University Hospital is globally recognized for its outstanding focal points: Tumor Diseases (home to the National Center for Tumor Diseases – NCT, and the Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center – HIT, offering cutting-edge radiation therapy), Transplantation Medicine (one of the oldest and leading centers in Germany for kidney, liver, heart, and blood stem cell transplants), Cardiovascular Diseases (with the first Chest Pain Unit in Germany), Neurological and Neurosurgical Disorders, and Pediatric Diseases (including complex epilepsies and metabolic disorders in children).
    • Noteworthy: Affiliated with Heidelberg University, it is at the forefront of medical innovation and research, committed to advancing treatments through scientific discovery and interdisciplinary collaboration.
    • Find out more about Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg’s extensive services and research on MyHospitalNow.
  • Klinikum der Universität München (LMU University Hospital Munich):
    • Location: Munich.
    • Type: One of Germany’s largest and most prestigious university hospitals, operating as a public, teaching, and research institution.
    • Key Specialties: LMU University Hospital comprises over 45 specialized clinics and 11 institutes, practicing interdisciplinary medicine. It is particularly strong in Transplantation of internal organs and retinal transplantation, comprehensive Cardiovascular diseases (including complex surgeries and interventional procedures), various Oncology treatments (for blood, lung, bladder, prostate, stomach, and breast cancer), Neurology (Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, stroke, dementia), Orthopedics (all types of joint replacement surgery), Spine Surgery, and Urology (including prostate cancer treatment).
    • Noteworthy: Known for its interdisciplinary approach and pioneering techniques, such as the development of interstitial hyperthermia for cancer treatment and a new surgical center with state-of-the-art operating rooms.
    • Discover specialized care and modern facilities at LMU University Hospital Munich on MyHospitalNow.
  • Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE):
    • Location: Hamburg.
    • Type: One of the most modern university hospitals in Europe, operating as a public, teaching, and research institution.
    • Key Specialties: UKE unites more than 80 interdisciplinary clinics, hospitals, and institutes across 13 centers. Its comprehensive specializations include Oncology, Cardiology, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Visceral Surgery, Transplantation (Visceral, Stem Cell), Pediatrics (including Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care), and Traumatology.
    • Noteworthy: UKE places a strong emphasis on the close interaction of advanced medicine, research, and training, fostering an environment where innovative methods are continuously developed and applied for patient benefit. It is among the top 15 best clinics in Europe.
    • Learn more about the vital services offered by UKE through MyHospitalNow.
  • Universitätsklinikum Essen (University Hospital Essen):
    • Location: Essen.
    • Type: A maximum care hospital, operating as a public, teaching, and research institution.
    • Key Specialties: Universitätsklinikum Essen serves the Ruhr Metropolitan Region, treating approximately 49,000 inpatients and 163,000 outpatients annually. It offers excellent interdisciplinary diagnostics and treatment based on state-of-the-art research across numerous clinics and institutes. It has strong capabilities in Oncology, Transplantation, and Cardiovascular Medicine.
    • Noteworthy: As a maximum care hospital, it handles highly complex cases and is a significant center for both patient care and medical research. It also provides a dedicated Foreign Patient Service to assist international inquiries.
    • Access vital information on Universitätsklinikum Essen and its services on MyHospitalNow.
  • Helios Hospital Group (Private):
    • Locations: Helios is one of Europe’s largest private hospital operators, with a significant presence across Germany, including facilities like Helios Hospital Berlin-Buch and Helios Clinic Krefeld.
    • Type: A private hospital group (for-profit).
    • Key Specialties: Helios hospitals offer a wide range of medical services. They often excel in areas such as Oncology (known for integrated cancer care), Cardiology, and various specialized surgical procedures (e.g., the HIPEC procedure for advanced abdominal cancers).
    • Noteworthy: Helios is known for its modern facilities, high efficiency, and often shorter waiting times compared to public institutions, making them a popular choice for both domestic and international patients.
    • Find a Helios hospital location and its services on MyHospitalNow.

MyHospitalNow’s comprehensive listings extend beyond these examples, offering detailed profiles for numerous other public and private hospitals throughout Germany, ensuring you have the widest possible range of verified options to consider.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital

MyHospitalNow empowers you to evaluate hospitals in Germany based on criteria that matter most to you:

  • Type of Facility: Understand the differences between large multi-profile university hospitals (for complex cases, research), specialized clinics, and general private hospitals, and whether they are public or private.
  • Specialties Offered: Does the hospital have the specific department or medical expertise you need (e.g., organ transplantation, advanced cardiac surgery, IVF, oncology)?
  • Location and Accessibility: Is it conveniently located for you, especially if you are in a major city or need to travel for specialized care?
  • International Accreditations: Look for hospitals with international accreditations (like Joint Commission International – JCI, or KTQ – Cooperation for Transparency and Quality in Healthcare) as these are strong indicators of adherence to global quality and safety standards.
  • Technological Capabilities: For advanced diagnostics or procedures, confirm the availability of modern equipment and innovative treatment methods.
  • Payment and Insurance: Understand the payment requirements and the nuances of using statutory vs. private insurance, and the need for comprehensive private insurance for international visitors.

Specialized Medical Services and Innovations in German Hospitals

Germany’s healthcare sector is a global leader, consistently at the forefront of medical innovation and specialized care. Its hospitals are characterized by cutting-edge research, advanced technological integration, and a commitment to transforming scientific discoveries into improved patient outcomes. MyHospitalNow helps you identify where these crucial services and advancements are available.

Key Specializations and Focus Areas:

  • Oncology and Cancer Treatment: Germany boasts some of Europe’s leading cancer centers. Hospitals like the National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) in Heidelberg, and specialized units within Charité, LMU, and UKE, offer comprehensive cancer care. This includes advanced diagnostics, precision radiation therapy (e.g., proton and ion-beam therapy at HIT), state-of-the-art chemotherapy, complex surgical oncology, and integrated, multidisciplinary care. There’s a strong emphasis on personalized medicine, targeted therapies, and extensive clinical trials, leading to high 5-year survival rates for cancer patients.
  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery: German hospitals are world-renowned for their expertise in treating heart and vascular diseases. Leading institutions perform complex cardiac surgeries (e.g., bypass operations, heart valve replacements), advanced interventional cardiology procedures (e.g., angioplasty, stenting, catheter ablation), and provide comprehensive care for heart failure. Many hospitals feature specialized Chest Pain Units for rapid diagnosis and treatment of acute cardiac emergencies.
  • Neurology and Neurosurgery: Germany excels in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders. Hospitals offer advanced care for conditions such as stroke (with dedicated stroke units), epilepsy management, neuro-oncology (brain and spinal cord tumors), neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s), and complex brain and spinal surgeries, often utilizing microsurgical techniques.
  • Organ Transplantation: Germany is a major center for various organ transplants, including liver, kidney, heart, lung, and blood stem cell transplantation. Hospitals like Heidelberg University Hospital and LMU University Hospital Munich have highly experienced multidisciplinary teams providing comprehensive pre-transplant evaluation, surgical procedures, and long-term post-transplant care.
  • Orthopedics and Traumatology: German orthopedic departments are highly regarded for their expertise in joint replacement surgery (hip, knee, shoulder, ankle), sports medicine, complex reconstructive procedures, and spinal surgery (including minimally invasive techniques and complex spinal reconstructions).
  • Reproductive Medicine & In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Germany has a well-established and highly successful sector for fertility treatments. Clinics like Caucasus Medical Center and Caraps Medline (though the latter is in Georgia, the country, not Germany) are examples of facilities that offer high success rates in IVF and other assisted reproductive technologies, attracting patients seeking solutions for infertility. Note: For Germany specifically, many university hospitals and private fertility clinics offer excellent IVF services.
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery: There is a widespread adoption of advanced minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgical techniques across numerous specialties (e.g., urology, gynecology, general surgery). These techniques lead to smaller incisions, reduced pain, faster patient recovery, and fewer complications.
  • Advanced Diagnostics: German hospitals are extensively equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including high-resolution MRI, CT, PET, and SPECT scanners, as well as sophisticated laboratory services, which are crucial for accurate and early disease detection.

Medical Research and Development:

Germany is a global powerhouse in medical research. Its university hospitals are deeply integrated with leading research institutes and pharmaceutical companies, fostering a dynamic environment for scientific discovery. This strong link between research and clinical practice ensures the rapid translation of scientific findings into new diagnostic methods and therapeutic approaches, benefiting patients directly.

Technology Integration:

Continuous investment in cutting-edge medical technology is a hallmark of German hospitals. This includes advanced surgical equipment, highly precise radiation therapy machines, sophisticated imaging systems, and the implementation of digital health solutions and telemedicine platforms to enhance efficiency, patient access, and overall care quality.

Quality Assurance and Accreditation:

Germany has robust national quality assurance mechanisms in place. Furthermore, many leading hospitals actively pursue national and international accreditations, such as Joint Commission International (JCI) or KTQ (Cooperation for Transparency and Quality in Healthcare). These accreditations are a testament to their adherence to stringent global quality and patient safety standards, providing an additional layer of assurance for patients.

Finding Specific Services on MyHospitalNow

Our platform is designed for precision. You can effortlessly filter or search by specific specializations, particular treatments (e.g., “liver transplant,” “IVF”), or desired accreditations on your platform. Each hospital’s detailed profile on MyHospitalNow outlines its available departments, notable programs, and technological capabilities, ensuring transparency and ease of access to critical information.

Planning Your Medical Journey: Patient Experience and Medical Tourism in Germany

Germany’s unique combination of medical expertise, advanced technology, and a well-organized healthcare system makes it a top destination for medical care, particularly for international patients seeking high-quality treatment.

Why Choose Germany for Medical Care (International Patients):

  • World-Class Quality & Safety: Germany consistently ranks among the top countries globally for healthcare quality, patient safety, and overall health outcomes. This is underpinned by rigorous regulatory oversight, continuous quality improvement initiatives, and a strong emphasis on evidence-based medicine.
  • Expert Medical Professionals: German doctors, surgeons, and nurses are highly trained, often with international experience and specialized expertise in complex medical fields. Many are proficient in English, facilitating smoother communication for international patients.
  • Advanced Facilities: Patients gain access to state-of-the-art medical technology, modern hospital infrastructure, and specialized treatment centers that are at the forefront of medical innovation.
  • Competitive Costs: While not inexpensive, the cost of private medical treatments in Germany can be significantly more competitive than in countries like the U.S. for a comparable level of quality and expertise. This often makes Germany an attractive option for medical tourists seeking value.
  • Efficiency and Organization: The German healthcare system is renowned for its efficiency, structured processes, and commitment to timely and effective patient care.
  • Research-Driven Treatment: As a hub for medical research, many German hospitals integrate the latest scientific findings and clinical trials into patient care, offering access to cutting-edge therapies.

Patient Experience Insights:

  • Communication: In major university hospitals and private clinics that cater to international patients, English proficiency among medical professionals is common. Many institutions also offer dedicated international patient departments or provide professional translation services (e.g., for medical consultations, consent forms) upon request, ensuring clear communication.
  • Patient Rights: Germany has robust patient rights laws. These ensure that individuals are treated with dignity and respect, have the right to comprehensive information about their condition, proposed treatments, and potential risks, and the right to give informed consent before any procedure. Patients also have the right to privacy and confidentiality of their medical records and the right to refuse treatment. You also have the right to access your own medical records.
  • Financial Aspects: International patients typically pay for their medical services out-of-pocket or through their travel or private international health insurance. Hospitals catering to medical tourists are generally transparent about pricing and will provide detailed cost estimates in advance. It is highly advisable to request such an estimate and clarify payment procedures before commencing treatment.

Logistical Considerations for International Patients/Visitors:

  • Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, a Schengen visa for medical purposes may be required. This visa typically necessitates documentation from the German healthcare facility confirming admission, the planned duration of stay, and an estimate of treatment costs. Always check the latest requirements with the nearest German embassy or consulate well in advance of your planned trip.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel health insurance that specifically covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, and, critically, potential medical evacuation back to your home country is absolutely essential. Ensure your policy has adequate coverage for the full duration and scope of your planned treatment.
  • Currency & Payment: The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards (MasterCard, Visa, American Express) are widely accepted in hospitals, clinics, and most establishments. Cash payments are also common.
  • Accommodation & Transportation: Germany boasts excellent infrastructure. Major cities offer a diverse range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury apartments, many located conveniently near hospitals. The country has a highly efficient and extensive public transportation network (trains, trams, buses, metros), making it easy to navigate cities and travel between regions.
  • Medical Concierge Services: Many leading hospitals and specialized medical tourism agencies in Germany offer dedicated services for international patients. These can include comprehensive assistance with travel arrangements (flights, accommodation), scheduling appointments, providing professional translation services, arranging airport pick-ups (by car or ambulance), and offering ongoing support throughout the patient’s medical journey.

How MyHospitalNow Supports Your Journey:

MyHospitalNow aims to reduce pre-visit anxiety by providing you with essential details:

  • Contact Information: Direct phone numbers and, where available, email addresses for hospitals, allowing for direct inquiries about international patient services, cost estimates, and appointment booking.
  • International Patient Services: Information on dedicated departments or coordinators for foreign patients, simplifying the initial contact process.
  • Practical Tips: While we focus on hospital information, our platform indirectly empowers you with knowledge to navigate the system more effectively, helping you anticipate typical processes and make informed choices.

By empowering you with this knowledge, MyHospitalNow helps you plan effectively and approach your hospital visit in Germany with greater confidence.

Conclusion: Your Comprehensive Healthcare Partner: Beyond Hospitals in Germany with MyHospitalNow

Navigating healthcare, especially when seeking specific treatments or in a new environment like Germany, can be a complex and sometimes overwhelming undertaking. However, with MyHospitalNow, this journey transforms from a challenge into a clear, confident path.

We’ve explored how MyHospitalNow stands as the ultimate, most reliable, and comprehensive platform for all information regarding hospitals in Germany. From the globally recognized university hospitals like Charité in Berlin, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, LMU University Hospital Munich, and UKE in Hamburg, to the comprehensive services offered by private groups like Helios, our platform offers an unparalleled depth of detail. We provide you with crucial insights into their specialties, state-of-the-art facilities, international accreditations, and the unique services they offer, ensuring you can make informed decisions tailored to your healthcare needs.

Our commitment goes beyond just listing names; we provide the verified, current, and easily accessible data that empowers you. Whether you’re researching advanced specialized medical services (like organ transplantation, complex cardiac surgery, oncology, or IVF), understanding Germany’s world-leading and efficient healthcare system, or planning the logistics of a medical visit to this dynamic and hospitable nation, MyHospitalNow is designed to be your indispensable guide.

Don’t let uncertainty dictate your healthcare choices. With MyHospitalNow, you gain the knowledge and confidence to connect with the best hospitals in Germany.

Ready to take control of your healthcare journey? Visit MyHospitalNow.com today and discover the comprehensive information you need to find the ideal hospital in Germany. Your well-being is our priority, and your trusted resource is just a click away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How does the German healthcare system work for foreigners? A: For short-term visitors, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers EU/EEA citizens for medically necessary treatment. Other foreigners should have comprehensive travel health insurance. For long-term stays or residency, mandatory statutory health insurance (GKV) applies to most, while higher earners or self-employed individuals can opt for private health insurance (PKV).

Q: Is private health insurance mandatory/recommended in Germany? A: Health insurance is mandatory for all residents in Germany. Most people are covered by statutory health insurance (GKV). Private health insurance (PKV) is an option for certain groups (e.g., high-income earners, self-employed, civil servants) and offers additional benefits; it is highly recommended if you are eligible and seek more comprehensive coverage or specific amenities.

Q: Are doctors in Germany English-speaking? A: Many doctors and medical staff, especially in university hospitals, larger private clinics, and urban areas, have good English proficiency. Dedicated international patient services often provide translation if needed.

Q: What are the main specialties for medical tourism in Germany? A: Germany is a top destination for medical tourism, particularly for complex treatments in oncology (cancer), cardiology and cardiovascular surgery, neurology and neurosurgery, organ transplantation, orthopedics, and reproductive medicine (IVF).

Q: What are my patient rights in Germany’s healthcare system? A: Patients in Germany have strong legal rights, including the right to comprehensive information about their condition and treatment options, informed consent, dignity, privacy, confidentiality of medical records, and the right to refuse treatment. You also have the right to inspect your own medical records.

Q: How does hospital accreditation work in Germany? A: Germany has national quality assurance systems. Many leading hospitals also seek international accreditations like Joint Commission International (JCI) or KTQ (Cooperation for Transparency and Quality in Healthcare). These accreditations signify adherence to high international standards of quality and patient safety.

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