How does the healthcare system work in Switzerland?

What is the quality of healthcare in Switzerland?

• Healthcare in Switzerland is of a very high quality and has had a high ranking on the Euro Health Consumer Index for many years. At the same time, it is one of the most expensive healthcare systems in the world.
• The country also has one of the highest nurse densities, with around 17 nurses per 1,000 inhabitants.
• Swiss healthcare is accessible. There is a very low infant mortality rate and high survival rates for cancer.
• Everyone living in Switzerland, including expats, is required by law to take out basic health insurance (Grundversicherung/Assurance de base) within three months of arrival.

How does the public healthcare system work in Switzerland?

• Switzerland does not have a public healthcare system like some other European countries. It is a universal system, but there is no free care. Healthcare is mainly financed through private insurance.

How does the private healthcare system work in Switzerland?

• Switzerland has one of the largest private healthcare markets in the world, with a lot of freedom of choice and a lot of competition.
• Private health insurance is compulsory in Switzerland. You can choose your own insurer. The basic package is the minimum and no money is made on it by insurance companies (Soziale Krankenversicherung (German), assurance maladie (French), assicurazione-mallatie (Italian)). You can choose your own insurer, the costs differ per canton.
• Everyone who lives in Switzerland has access to healthcare as long as he or she has health insurance. Healthcare is very expensive for Swiss residents, due to the high deductible and the surcharges.
• Residents and non-residents need at least basic health insurance, which covers 80-90% of their healthcare costs. Many short- and long-term visitors to Switzerland opt for international insurance packages.
• The insured chooses their own deductible and also bears 10% of the costs for most medical appointments up to a maximum of 700 francs per year.
• So, you gain access to healthcare in Switzerland by registering for health insurance. There are all kinds of rules for this, you must first register with the local Swiss canton. After registration, you have a limited number of weeks to register for health insurance. Registration requires all kinds of proof and papers, such as your Swiss residence permit, proof of address, recent energy bill or rental contract. Eventually, you will receive a health insurance card that you must show at all medical appointments. This is proof to your healthcare provider that you are entitled to Swiss healthcare.
• Make sure you register within three months, otherwise you may be fined and an insurance will be automatically selected for you.
• There are additional insurances available for, for example, alternative therapies, private rooms and extensive dental care.
• Have you not yet arranged health insurance? With a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) you can gain access to medical care in Switzerland in case of emergencies.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Switzerland?

• The healthcare system is GP-oriented. You usually first go to a GP before visiting a specialist.
• In general, you can choose your own GP, ​​depending on your policy. The doctor can refer you to a specialist. In some cases, depending on your insurance policy, you can consult a specialist without a referral from your GP and this will then be covered by the insurance.
• It is important if you have an appointment with your GP, to confirm the appointment with the GP, otherwise cancellation costs will be charged.
• Many Swiss doctors speak English, especially in urban areas.

How is the dentist arranged in Switzerland?

• Swiss dentists offer services in a private practice or a public dental clinic.
• Dental care is generally not covered by basic insurance. This applies to both preventive treatments (such as teeth cleaning) and more intensive dental care.
• Dental visits in Switzerland are expensive. Many people choose to take out additional insurance or arrange their dental visits abroad (for example in neighbouring countries such as Germany or France).

How is pregnancy care arranged in Switzerland?

• There is a wide choice of types of care providers during pregnancy. You usually choose a gynaecologist or obstetrician who will guide you during pregnancy.
• Births take place in the hospital, at home or in a birth centre. All healthcare costs are covered by the state from 12 weeks of pregnancy onwards.
• You are entitled to home visits from a maternity nurse (hebamme), who will help you with breastfeeding and recovery.
• If you are not insured, a birth can cost around 10,000 euros. So make sure you are insured quickly if you are in Switzerland.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Switzerland?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Switzerland?

• Switzerland has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. You can feel safe in cities, towns and the countryside, both day and night.
• Switzerland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, but activities such as skiing, hiking and climbing come with risks. Avalanches, rockfalls and bad weather conditions can be dangerous.
• In summer, heavy rainfall can cause rivers to flood, especially in mountainous areas.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Switzerland?

• Switzerland has an excellent healthcare system and high hygiene standards. There are few health risks.
• Tap water is safe to drink, and food safety is strictly regulated.
• In forested areas and grasslands, you may encounter ticks that can transmit TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) or Lyme disease.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Switzerland?

• Switzerland has an excellent road network that is well maintained, even in mountainous regions.
• Toll roads are rare, but an autobahn vignette (motorway sticker) is required for use on motorways. These can be purchased at petrol stations and border crossings.
• Mountain passes and roads can be narrow and winding and in the winter you don't want to find yourself forgetting your winter tyres and snow chains.
• Speed ​​limits are strict and fines can be high if you're are exceding the speed limit: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on provincial roads and 120 km/h on motorways.
• Driving with dipped headlights is mandatory, even during the day.
• Switzerland has an amazing and punctual public transport system with trains and buses.
• A Swiss Travel Pass can be beneficial for frequent use of trains and other transport.
• Switzerland has an extensive network of cycle paths. Be aware of mountain roads that can be challenging for less experienced cyclists.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Switzerland?

• Is the trip to and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Switzerland if you are going to live there for a while?

• It is mandatory to take out health insurance if you are staying in Switzerland for three months or longer. There are more than 60 government-approved providers. In addition, it may be wise to take out international health insurance for at least the first period, but sometimes also for the rest of your time in Switzerland, to close the gaps in your coverage and also to be insured for medical repatriation.
• Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.