The health care system in Switzerland is very well organized. Insurance is compulsory and therefore all residents are comprehensively insured against accidents and illness. Numerous doctors, pharmacies, and hospitals provide necessary services.
In Switzerland all residents must be insured against accidents and illness. New residents must complete registration for insurance within the first three months of entering Switzerland. Children must be insured within the first three months following their birth. The services of the compulsory insurances offer are legally bound. All insured persons have the right to equal medical care.
Booklet "Health Guide to Switzerland"
The Swiss health care system is funded by the state (confederation, cantons, and communities), by employers, and by private individuals. Private individuals pay a monthly contribution to both health and accident insurance. The contribution is defined yearly and may vary according to the canton. People who are ill or involved in an accident must pay a part of the costs (deductible (Franchise)) and a retention fee (Selbstbehalt). These costs will not exceed a certain amount per year.
Booklet "Health Guide to Switzerland"
Communicating with doctors, pharmacists, or care staff in a foreign language is a challenge. For this reason some hospitals offer free interpretation with the help of specially trained intercultural interpreters. Patients are advised to infom themselves in advance of the services offered. The interpreters can be employed for doctor's appointments and other situations as well. However, these services must be paid for.
ARGE Verdi / agency service for eastern Switzerland
Telephone interpreter service / additional information (DE)
Booklet "Health Guide to Switzerland"
Booklet "Health Guide to Switzerland"
Booklet "My Rights as a Patient" (DE)
Health Care System
Health
migesplus / additional information
