Your adventure in Switzerland is around the corner and there's a lot to arrange. One of the most important things on that list? Your health insurance. The Swiss system works a bit differently from what you're used to elsewhere in Europe, but don't worry. From the mandatory basic policy to the different deductible options, here's how it works, crystal clear.
Swiss basic health insurance: what you need to know
If you live or work in Switzerland, you're required to take out Swiss basic health insurance. Good news: you have 3 months to arrange this after moving. And if you work more than 8 hours a week with an employer, you're automatically insured for accidents through your employer.
An important benefit: insurers are obliged to accept you for basic insurance. No one can refuse you, which gives real peace of mind.
Costs and deductibles: how it works
We're not going to lie: Swiss health insurance is more expensive than in most of Europe. The exact premium depends on:
- Your age
- The health insurer you choose
- The canton where you live
- The deductible you pick
Pro tip: with a higher deductible (max. CHF 2,500), you pay a lower monthly premium. With a lower deductible (min. CHF 300), your monthly premium is higher.
Premium example: a 26-year-old pays around CHF 230 per month with a deductible of CHF 2,500.
Once your annual deductible is used up, the health insurer pays 90% of costs. You still contribute 10% up to a maximum of CHF 700 per year. After that, all insured costs are fully reimbursed.
The different models: pick what fits you
In Switzerland, you can choose from a few different health insurance models. Below, from most affordable to most flexible:
1. Telemed model: medical advice by phone
- For any medical issue, you first call the telemedicine advice centre.
- You get a diagnosis or a referral to a doctor by phone.
- Premiums are attractive because of the telephone first-contact step.
- In an emergency, you can see a doctor immediately.
2. Multimed: family doctor meets Telemed
- Combines your family doctor with the benefits of Telemed.
- You choose: call your doctor or the telemedicine centre first.
- Reduced personal contribution: CHF 400 instead of CHF 700 per year.
- Treatments are digitally coordinated.
3. HMO model: the power of a network
- Your first point of contact is a doctor in a medical network or group practice.
- That doctor refers you to a specialist or hospital if needed.
- Your network's doctor number also works as an emergency number.
4. Family doctor model: straight to the doctor
- Your family doctor is always your first point of contact.
- Your doctor arranges your treatment and refers you to specialists when needed.
- In an emergency, you contact your doctor first.
5. Standard model: full freedom
- Free choice of any doctor and specialist.
- The most flexible option, but also the most expensive.
Our tip: CSS Insurance
At takeoff, we're fans of CSS as a health insurer. They offer competitive premiums and have free programmes that support a healthy lifestyle. Perfect for active physios who love to move in the mountains. That's why we've set up a partnership with CSS. Get in touch with takeoff to book a free comprehensive consultation where:
- The full care system is explained
- You get to know the different basic and supplementary insurances
- A suitable package is put together for you
- You may get discounts on supplementary insurances
Ready for takeoff?
Got questions about health insurance or other aspects of moving to Switzerland? We're here for you. At takeoff, we understand better than anyone what questions come up when you take this step. After all, we did it ourselves. Check out our frequently asked questions, get in touch, or join our community and ask all your questions to physios who went before you.
