Sanitas Health Insurance A Comprehensive Guide for Expats in Switzerland
Welcome to Switzerland! If you're an expatriate navigating the Swiss healthcare system, understanding your Sanitas health insurance options is paramount. Sanitas is a prominent health insurance provider known for its modern approach, comprehensive digital services, and a range of insurance plans designed to meet diverse needs.
This guide focuses on aspects relevant to expats, including Sanitas's innovative approach to pre-existing conditions coverage and their user-friendly digital tools like the MySanitas app.
Popular with Expats
Why international residents choose Sanitas
English Language Support
Sanitas provides comprehensive support in English, including English-speaking customer service representatives and documentation available in English for expatriates.
Pre-existing Conditions Coverage
The innovative Individual Premium Supplement offers coverage for pre-existing conditions in supplementary insurance through an individualized premium adjustment rather than standard exclusions.
Digital-First Experience
Sanitas's digital platforms including the MySanitas app and Medgate telemedicine services allow for easy management of your policy, submission of claims, and virtual doctor consultations.
Range of Insurance Models
Various basic and supplementary insurance models allow expats to find coverage options that align with their specific healthcare needs, preferences, and budget.
About Sanitas Health Insurance
Sanitas is one of Switzerland's leading health insurance providers, serving over 835,000 policyholders with annual premium revenues of approximately 2.9 billion Swiss francs. More than just an insurance provider, Sanitas positions itself as a health partner dedicated to supporting your well-being through innovative solutions and comprehensive coverage options.
What sets Sanitas apart is their forward-thinking approach to health insurance. They combine traditional Swiss quality with modern digital innovation, offering a range of digital tools that simplify insurance management. Their pioneering solutions, such as the Individual Premium Supplement for pre-existing conditions, demonstrate their commitment to addressing the diverse needs of their customers, including the international community in Switzerland.
With a strong focus on quality service and a deep understanding of the challenges expats face, Sanitas aims to make your healthcare journey in Switzerland as smooth and reassuring as possible. From understanding your policy in English to accessing top-tier medical facilities, Sanitas is equipped to meet your expectations and provide comprehensive health coverage tailored to your needs.
Unsure if Sanitas aligns with your specific needs as an expat? Get a personalized consultation with Expat Savvy to compare your options and receive tailored advice.
Why Sanitas Stands Out for Expatriates
Choosing a health insurance provider in a new country involves careful consideration of various factors. Sanitas distinguishes itself in the Swiss market through several key attributes that are particularly beneficial for expatriates.
Digital-First Approach
Modern app ecosystem with MySanitas and Medgate for easy policy management and telehealth services
Innovative Pre-existing Conditions Coverage
Unique Individual Premium Supplement allowing coverage for pre-existing conditions in supplementary insurance
Multilingual Support
Comprehensive customer service in multiple languages including English to assist international residents
The Unique Sanitas Individual Premium Supplement: A Groundbreaking Option
One of Sanitas's most significant and unique advantages is its Individual Premium Supplement for certain pre-existing health conditions. Unlike most insurers that exclude pre-existing conditions from supplementary coverage, Sanitas offers this innovative solution that allows coverage without restrictions.
This approach means you might pay a higher premium, but in return, your pre-existing condition would be covered according to the terms of your supplementary plan. This gives expats with existing health concerns a pathway to more comprehensive coverage than might otherwise be available.
Sanitas Basic Health Insurance (Obligatorische Grundversicherung)
In Switzerland, basic health insurance (Grundversicherung) is mandatory for all residents, including expatriates. This foundational coverage ensures access to essential medical services. Sanitas, like other Swiss health insurers, provides basic health insurance plans that comply with federal regulations.
While the scope of services under basic insurance is defined by law and is generally consistent across providers, Sanitas offers various models to suit different needs and preferences.
Basic Health Insurance Models
Standard Model
Free choice of doctors throughout Switzerland with highest premium
- Choose any doctor
- Direct specialist access
- Maximum flexibility
- No restrictions
MedCare (Family Doctor)
Choose a designated family doctor as first point of contact
- Lower premiums (up to 7% savings)
- Coordinated care
- Personal doctor relationship
- Specialist referrals
NetMed (HMO)
Health Maintenance Organization with network of doctors
- Lower premiums (up to 10% savings)
- Coordinated care
- Network of specialists
- Quality oversight
CallMed (Telmed)
Initial consultation via Medgate app or telephone
- Significant premium savings (up to 15%)
- 24/7 medical advice
- Convenient digital access
- Doctor referrals when needed
Important note: When choosing a basic health insurance model with Sanitas, it's important to consider factors such as your preferred level of flexibility in choosing healthcare providers, your budget, and your comfort with models like Telmed or HMO. Expat Savvy can provide guidance on which Sanitas basic insurance model might best align with your individual circumstances.
Deep Dive into Sanitas's Premium Supplementary Insurance Plans
Sanitas's supplementary insurance plans are where the provider truly shines, offering a range of options designed to elevate your health coverage far beyond the standard. These plans are crafted to provide enhanced comfort, greater choice, and access to specialized treatments and wellness benefits. For expatriates seeking comprehensive protection and premium healthcare experiences, Sanitas's supplementary offerings are particularly compelling.
Jump
Supplementary insurance tailored for young adults
- Alternative medicine coverage
- Vision care benefits
- Fitness contributions
- Preventive health measures
Classic
Comprehensive supplementary coverage for individuals
- Orthodontic treatment
- Psychotherapy sessions
- Extended coverage options
- Alternative treatments
Family
Family-oriented supplementary plan
- Shared service account
- Flexible limits per family member
- Family-oriented coverage
- Comprehensive protection
Medical Private
Premium worldwide coverage
- Worldwide choice of doctors
- Private consultations
- Non-KVG billing options
- Global coverage
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Sanitas Digital Experience: User-Friendly Apps and Services
In an increasingly digital world, the convenience of managing your health insurance online is increasingly important. Sanitas has embraced technology to enhance the customer experience with its comprehensive digital ecosystem, making it particularly appealing for tech-savvy expatriates and those who value efficiency and accessibility.
Sanitas Portal App (MySanitas)
This user-friendly mobile application serves as your digital health insurance command center, offering a range of convenient features:
- Policy Documents: View your insurance details, coverage limits, and policy documents in one place.
- Coverage Checking: Check your specific coverage details for various treatments and services.
- Digital Claims Submission: Submit medical claims by simply scanning or uploading your invoices, eliminating paperwork and mail delays.
- Personal Details Management: Update your contact information and personal details directly through the app.
- Digital Insurance Card: Access your digital insurance card anytime, anywhere, even without an internet connection.
Sanitas Medgate App
This specialized telemedicine application connects you directly with medical professionals:
- Virtual Consultations: Consult with qualified physicians via video or phone calls without leaving your home.
- Medical Advice: Receive professional medical opinions for non-emergency situations.
- Prescriptions: When appropriate, doctors can issue prescriptions that can be sent directly to a pharmacy.
- Integration with CallMed: For those with the CallMed basic insurance model, this app is the mandated first point of contact for medical issues.
Benefits for Expats
For expatriates in Switzerland, Sanitas's digital services offer several specific advantages:
- Language Accessibility: The apps are available in multiple languages, helping overcome potential language barriers in the Swiss healthcare system.
- Familiarity: A digital approach to healthcare management may feel more familiar and comfortable for many international residents who are used to digital services.
- Convenience: Digital claim submission and management are particularly valuable when navigating a new healthcare system in a foreign country.
Innovative Approach to Pre-existing Conditions
One of Sanitas's most distinctive offerings is its approach to pre-existing conditions in supplementary insurance. This is particularly relevant for expats who may be concerned about coverage limitations for existing health issues when moving to Switzerland.
The Individual Premium Supplement
Traditionally, when applying for supplementary health insurance in Switzerland with pre-existing conditions, insurers typically offer one of three outcomes:
- Full acceptance with standard premiums (rare for significant pre-existing conditions)
- Acceptance with exclusions for the pre-existing conditions (common)
- Outright rejection of the application (for severe conditions)
Sanitas offers an innovative fourth option: The Individual Premium Supplement. With this approach, instead of excluding coverage for pre-existing conditions, Sanitas may offer to cover them by calculating an individualized premium supplement based on the specific condition and associated risk.
How It Works:
- During the application process for supplementary insurance, you complete the standard health questionnaire.
- If you disclose a pre-existing condition, Sanitas assesses the associated risk.
- Rather than automatically excluding coverage for this condition, Sanitas may offer you an Individual Premium Supplement.
- You pay a higher premium, but in return, the pre-existing condition is covered according to the terms of your supplementary insurance plan.
Key Benefits for Expats:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Your pre-existing condition is covered under your supplementary insurance plan, providing more comprehensive protection.
- Transparency: You know exactly what you're paying for the additional coverage, with a clear breakdown of your standard premium and the supplement.
- Peace of Mind: Particularly valuable when settling in a new country, knowing that your existing health concerns are covered can provide significant reassurance.
- Choice: In many cases, you may still have the option to choose between a traditional exclusion or the premium supplement, allowing you to select the approach that best suits your needs and budget.
It's important to note that this option isn't automatically available for all conditions or applicants. The availability of the Individual Premium Supplement and its cost will depend on various factors, including the specific pre-existing condition, its severity, and your overall health profile.
For expatriates with pre-existing health conditions who are concerned about securing comprehensive coverage in Switzerland, this innovative approach from Sanitas represents a significant advantage worth exploring. Expat Savvy can help you understand the potential implications for your specific situation and guide you through the application process.
Key Sanitas Advantages for Expats
Why Sanitas stands out for international residents
Digital-First Approach
Sanitas's modern digital ecosystem with the MySanitas app and Medgate telemedicine services offers convenient policy management and healthcare access.
Perfect for tech-savvy expatriates who value convenience and digital accessibility in managing their healthcare needs.
Individual Premium Supplement
Sanitas's innovative approach allows coverage for pre-existing conditions in supplementary insurance through an individualized premium adjustment rather than exclusions.
This unique offering gives expats with pre-existing conditions a pathway to more comprehensive health coverage in Switzerland.
Multilingual Support
Sanitas provides comprehensive customer service in multiple languages, including English, helping expatriates navigate the Swiss healthcare system more comfortably.
Documentation and digital services are also available in English, reducing language barriers for international residents.
Global Coverage Options
With premium supplementary insurance plans like Medical Private, Sanitas offers enhanced international coverage for treatment abroad.
This international flexibility is especially valuable for expats who travel frequently or maintain connections to their home countries.
Getting Started with Sanitas through Expat Savvy
Expat Savvy simplifies your insurance journey as independent advisors, helping you navigate Sanitas and other Swiss insurers to find coverage that perfectly matches your unique needs.
Our Services
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Personalized Consultation
Understanding your needs, family situation, budget, and pre-existing conditions
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Needs Analysis & Comparison
Explaining Sanitas plans and comparing with market alternatives
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Pre-existing Conditions Guidance
Help with Sanitas's Individual Premium Supplement options
Application Help
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Paperwork Guidance
Support with application process and documentation
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Premium Optimization
Finding ways to optimize coverage while controlling costs
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Family Packages
Evaluation of family-oriented insurance options
Ready to explore your Sanitas options?
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Helpful Resources
Learn more about health insurance in Switzerland
Switching Health Insurance in Switzerland
Learn about the process, timing, and considerations when changing your health insurance provider.
Read moreHealth Insurance for New Arrivals
Everything you need to know about setting up health insurance when you first move to Switzerland.
Read moreSwiss Health Insurance Deadlines
Important dates and deadlines for switching or modifying your health insurance coverage in Switzerland.
Read moreFrequently Asked Questions
- How does Sanitas handle pre-existing conditions for supplementary insurance?
- Sanitas offers an innovative Individual Premium Supplement for certain pre-existing conditions. This means you might pay a higher premium, but the condition could be covered under the supplementary insurance plan, rather than being excluded. This offers a valuable alternative to the standard practice of excluding pre-existing conditions from supplementary coverage.
- What are the main features of the Sanitas digital apps?
- Sanitas offers two primary digital apps: The MySanitas app (Portal app) allows you to manage your insurance policy, submit claims by scanning receipts, view documents, check your coverage, and access your policy details. The Sanitas Medgate app facilitates telemedicine services, allowing you to consult with doctors via phone or video call, receive medical advice, and even get prescriptions when appropriate.
- Does Sanitas offer English customer support and documentation?
- Yes, Sanitas generally provides English support for customer service and documentation, which is beneficial for expats in Switzerland. This multilingual approach helps international residents navigate the Swiss healthcare system more comfortably.
- What basic insurance models does Sanitas offer?
- Sanitas offers various basic insurance models including the Standard model with free choice of doctors, the MedCare model (Family Doctor) where your designated physician is your first point of contact, the NetMed model (HMO) with access to medical networks, and the CallMed model (Telmed) where you first consult via the Medgate app or phone. Alternative models can provide premium discounts of up to 15% compared to the standard model.
- What supplementary insurance plans does Sanitas offer?
- Sanitas offers several supplementary insurance plans including Jump for young adults, Classic for comprehensive individual coverage, Family for family-oriented protection, and Medical Private for premium worldwide coverage. Each plan provides additional benefits beyond what's covered by basic insurance, such as upgraded hospital accommodations, alternative therapies, and more.
- What makes Sanitas different from other Swiss health insurers?
- Sanitas distinguishes itself through its digital-first approach with user-friendly apps, innovative solutions like the Individual Premium Supplement for pre-existing conditions, multilingual customer support, and a range of flexible insurance models. Their focus on digital innovation and accessible healthcare makes them particularly appealing to tech-savvy expatriates.
- How can I apply for Sanitas health insurance as an expat?
- As an expat, you can apply for Sanitas health insurance by submitting an application directly or through an independent advisor like Expat Savvy. The process typically involves filling out application forms, providing residence information, and completing a health questionnaire for supplementary insurance. Expat Savvy can guide you through the entire process, from comparing options to managing your application.
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Conclusion
Sanitas stands as a formidable choice for expatriates seeking health insurance in Switzerland, distinguished by its commitment to digital innovation, forward-thinking solutions for pre-existing conditions, and comprehensive suite of products designed to meet modern healthcare needs. With strong multilingual support, convenient digital tools, and innovative approaches to coverage, Sanitas addresses many of the key concerns and priorities of the global community residing in Switzerland.
While the Swiss healthcare system is renowned for its quality, navigating its insurance landscape can be intricate. Sanitas's offerings, particularly its digital platforms like MySanitas and Medgate, its pioneering Individual Premium Supplement for pre-existing conditions, and its diverse supplementary plans, provide pathways to enhanced care and accessible healthcare management. However, the optimal choice always depends on individual circumstances.
Expat Savvy is dedicated to providing you with the expert, unbiased advice needed to make an informed decision. We can help you explore Sanitas's plans in detail, compare them with other leading providers, and ensure your chosen coverage is perfectly tailored to your life in Switzerland.
Disclaimer: This information is intended as a general guide and is based on publicly available information about Sanitas health insurance at the time of writing. Insurance plan details, benefits, and premiums can change. It is not a substitute for personalized advice from a qualified insurance advisor. Expat Savvy is an independent intermediary and does not represent Sanitas or any single insurance provider exclusively.
