In Germany, health insurance is statutory. You gotta have it. And so saying, I do indeed have it, and it is a beautiful thing. Last month I went to the dentist and had my teeth cleaned and an ancient filling replaced (in English!) for a grand total of $0 (zero dollars). You just show the receptionist your health insurance card and walk out the door. You never see a bill. Even things like chiropractors and massages are covered. And if you need to see a specialist like a dermatologist or a neurologist, you don’t have to waste time getting a referral from your GP . . . you just go. Let’s hear it for socialized healthcare.

Anyway: They asked me for a photo for my card, and this is what I sent them. I took it myself while standing against my front door to fulfill the “standing against a neutral background” requirement. I look like a greasy creep, but then what else is new . . .