Swiss Healthcare System The Complete Guide
Navigating Switzerland's healthcare system can be complex. We break down everything from mandatory basic insurance to finding the best provider for your needs.
Switzerland has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, combining universal coverage with high-quality medical care. Unlike many other European countries, the Swiss system is not tax-funded but is based on mandatory private health insurance.
Good to know: While insurance is private, it is strictly regulated. Basic insurance benefits are identical across all providers by law.
The Basics
Every resident in Switzerland must take out basic health insurance (Grundversicherung / Assurance de base). This is non-negotiable and ensures that everyone has access to medical care.
Universal Coverage
Mandatory for everyone. Covers illness, accidents, and maternity.
Private Providers
You choose from ~60 private insurance companies.
Identical Benefits
Coverage is defined by law and is the same everywhere.
Pre-existing Conditions
One of the most important features of the Swiss system is that insurers cannot reject you for basic insurance. They must accept every applicant, regardless of age or health status. This means your pre-existing conditions are fully covered from day one.
Understanding Costs
Premium
Monthly payment. Depends on age, location, and franchise.
Franchise
Annual deductible (CHF 300 - 2,500) you pay first.
Retention
10% co-pay after franchise (max CHF 700/year).
Estimate Your Costs
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Recommended Franchise
Based on your estimated costs of CHF 1000
Insurance Models
Save on premiums by choosing an alternative model.
| Model | First Contact | Savings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Any Doctor | — | Flexibility |
| Family Doctor | Designated GP | 10-15% | Trusted GP |
| Telmed | App / Hotline | 15-20% | Digital natives |
| HMO | HMO Center | Up to 25% | Urban residents |
Supplementary Insurance
Supplementary insurance (Zusatzversicherung) covers the "nice-to-haves". Insurers can reject applications for supplementary coverage based on health history.
Popular Add-ons
- Dental care
- Private hospital ward
- Alternative medicine
- Gym memberships
Important
Apply for supplementary insurance before you have any diagnosed conditions. Once you have a condition, it may be excluded from coverage.
New to Switzerland?
The 3-Month Rule
You have 3 months from your arrival date to take out health insurance.
Coverage is retroactive to your arrival date.
You will have to pay premiums backdated to your arrival.
Miss the deadline? Coverage starts late + potential fine.
Changing Insurers
You can switch your basic health insurance every year. The benefits are identical, so price and service are the main differentiators.
Deadline: November 30
Your cancellation letter must reach your current insurer by the last working day of November.
Find the Best Insurance
FAQ
- Is health insurance mandatory for foreigners?
- Yes, if you live or work in Switzerland, you must have Swiss health insurance. Exceptions exist for some cross-border workers and diplomats.
- Can I keep my foreign health insurance?
- Generally, no. Foreign insurance is rarely accepted as a substitute for mandatory Swiss basic insurance unless it offers equivalent coverage (which few do).
- Does basic insurance cover dental?
- No, routine dental care is not covered by basic insurance. You need supplementary dental insurance or must pay out of pocket.
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