Germany's public universities are almost free Image: Olaf Döring/imageBROKER/picture allianceThere are exceptions, however. Generally speaking, public health insurance covers necessary healthcare, and is considered the safest option. It is basically impossible to switch back to public health insurance later on if you are self-employed, so this is an important decision to take. The US has no national requirement for paid holidays, vacation days or paid sick days. Correction, September 19, 2025: This article did not properly state the standard contribution to public health insurance, which is of 14.6%.