Swiss Healthcare system explained for foreigners & expats
The Swiss healthcare system enjoys high recognition worldwide for its excellent quality and innovative strength. It is regularly ranked among the most outstanding healthcare systems in the world. According to the Euro Health Consumer Index 2019, the Swiss healthcare system is the best in Europe.
Medical care in Switzerland stands out above all for its simple and fast access to highly qualified specialists. In addition to short waiting times (where consultations can be arranged within a few days and waiting times for treatment are not a concern and much shorter than in other countries) Switzerland beats any other country for medical quality in staff and equipment, safety, hygiene and precision.
Patients in Switzerland benefit from these unique local advantages. The concentration of state-of-the-art medicine here allows you to get back to your home and daily life as quickly as possible.
On this page you'll find essential infos on Health insurance in Switzerland, How to register with a GP, what it means to be a patient in a Swiss hospital, what it means to give birth in Switzerland or what to do in a medical emergency.
What to do in a medical emergency?
Find out exactly what you can do in a medical emergency.
Tell me moreDo you need a specialist doctor?
When you need to see a specialist, Hirslanden, part of the largest private hospital group in Switzerland, has set up a direct line to support foreigners in Switzerland.
If you're a foreigner in Switzerland, you might not know who to turn to when you need a more serious medical intervention. You might also need support in English and have numerous questions related to your health insurance.
Tell me moreHealth insurance & healthcare
How expensive is healthcare in Switzerland?
Healthcare in Switzerland is of excellent quality with highly trained staff and cutting-edge technology, which does not come cheap. However, your health insurance will cover most healthcare costs.
The amount of money you pay out of our own pocket depends on the type of franchise you choose. The higher the franchise (=your contribution), the lower your monthly premium gets. When you choose a low franchise, your monthly premium will automatically be higher.
Tell me more about health insuranceHow to choose your GP in Switzerland
Depending on your basic insurance policy, you can choose your GP from a predefined pool of doctors, from GPs in your canton of residence or from anywhere in Switzerland. We recommend you choose a GP close to your home.
Tell me moreGiving birth in Switzerland
What happens when you’re pregnant in Switzerland? And what's it like giving birth in Switzerland?
Tell me moreA day in a Swiss Hospital
What happens when you're a patient in a Swiss hospital and what is the best hospital in Switzerland?
Tell me moreDo you have more questions related to healthcare in Switzerland?
Reach out to our partner Hirslanden, the largest private hospital group in Switzerland.
Get in touch with Hirslanden