Friedrich: Düsseldorf is an important location for health tourism in Europe. There are 15 clinics in the city, almost all diseases can be treated here. There is also a wide range of culture, shopping, restaurants and hotels. Modern architecture, the charm of the old town, many leafy parks and our magnificent Rhine panorama complete the fantastic overall experience. 

Martin: Thanks to the University Hospital, we have a training and research location in Düsseldorf that has an impact on the entire range of medical services offered in the city. After all, the best graduates settle here or continue working at the city's many clinics. The clinics are highly specialised; for example, there are renowned centres for cardiology, orthopaedics, heart surgery and diabetology. 

Friedrich: In addition to the excellent medical care, Düsseldorf also offers an equally outstanding range of top-class hotels. This is also a significant aspect for our international patients. Furthermore there is an exciting restaurant scene, world-class shopping, a cultural offer with internationally renowned museums, opera and theatres. After all, many patients come to Düsseldorf with their families, who gladly make use of these many leisure opportunities. The airport connection is another advantage. In no other comparable European city can you get from the airport to the city centre or the clinics in just 15 minutes.

Martin: We often hear from our patients that they really appreciate the short distances in Düsseldorf. That is a real advantage for Düsseldorf, just like the many shopping opportunities. I hear again and again from colleagues in Germany that their patients and their families also travel long distances to come to Düsseldorf for shopping. Patients really appreciate the many opportunities Düsseldorf offers them, as they often stay in the city for longer periods of time.

Friedrich: We can offer a very special combination of medical care, shopping, short distances and recreational opportunities that no other city in Europe can match. The city with its cosmopolitan people and the Rhenish way of life contributes to the feel-good atmosphere for visitors. The Mercer study regularly places Düsseldorf in the top 10 of the world's most liveable cities. In the current study, the city came in sixth place. 

Martin: It is precisely this quality of life in Düsseldorf that our patients repeatedly point out to us. When I say that someone should stay longer in the city for treatment, the answer often comes back: "It doesn't matter, we feel very comfortable here. What we also hear again and again is that our patients very much appreciate the Rhine promenade with its view of the majestic river Rhine and relaxing walks through the Hofgarten. The ambience and the way of life that we cultivate in the city make it very easy for visitors to quickly feel at home. 

Friedrich: Another advantage is that we are located in the middle of a conurbation. That means there are also further important medical services available beyond the city limits. Part of our concept is that patients feel comfortable here and receive the best possible medical care. Of course, this can also be in the region around Düsseldorf. After all, the healing process always comes first. 

Friedrich: And we are doing it out of passion because, naturally, we can see the potential growth in this premium segment. We are addressing a well-to-do target group, and for these patients it is important that they can discuss medical issues in their native languages. The overall experience from flight to hotel transfer to hotel stay and hospital treatment must be absolutely smooth and pleasant.

Ole Friedrich 
Managing Director of Düsseldorf Tourism Board.

Prof. Dr. Stephan Martin 
Head physician for diabetology in the Association of Catholic Hospitals in Düsseldorf (VKKD) and director of the West German Diabetes and Health Centre in Düsseldorf.