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Switzerland Expat Health Insurance

Located in the Alpine mountain range between France, Germany and Italy, Switzerland is one of the wealthiest countries on earth. Politically, Switzerland has a tradition of neutrality which kept it out of the destructive wars of the 20th century and allowed it to serve as a broker of peace on several occasions. The country’s official languages are German, French, Italian and Romansh. The Swiss climate is generally mild and temperate with four distinct seasons. Culturally, Switzerland draws from each of its linguistic groups, which is reflected in the art, music and cuisine of the country. There is also a keen interest in sports, particularly Alpine sports, and Switzerland generally excels at the Winter Olympic Games. Switzerland is a member of the European Free Trade area and the Schengen Area for travellers, but not part of the European Union.

Switzerland Healthcare System

Switzerland’s health indicators are among the highest in the world. Life expectancy at birth is 80 years for males and 84 years for females. Switzerland spends 11.3 percent of GDP on health care, or US$ 5,072 per capita annually – far above the European regional average. Nearly 60 percent of total health spending comes from government expenditure. Among private health care spending, only 22.6 percent comes from private Switzerland health insurance. Three quarters of private health care spending in Switzerland comes from out of pocket expenditure.

The health care workforce in Switzerland is well staffed and well trained. There are 40.7 doctors and 159.6 nurses and midwives per 10,000 people. Swiss infrastructure investment in public health means universal access to clean drinking water and sanitation facilities for the entire country.

Switzerland boasts some of the lowest rates of communicable disease in the world. HIV affects 4 of every 1,000 adults aged 15 – 49, which is half of the global average. Tuberculosis is prevalent in only 6 of every 100,000 Swiss, less than one thirtieth of the worldwide norm.

The main causes of morbidity and mortality in Switzerland come from non-communicable diseases, or the so-called diseases of affluence such as diabetes, cancer and cardiopulmonary disease. Nearly one third of Swiss men smoke, and nearly one fifth are obese, which brings concomitant health risks.

Swiss maternal mortality rates are very low, with 10 per 100,000 live births, less than half of the European average. Swiss mothers enjoy universal access to antenatal, birth and infant care. All births are attended by a skilled health care professional.

Switzerland is an important destination for both tourism and business travel. Even though it is a wealthy, developed country, there are health risks. Routine vaccinations should be updated before visiting Switzerland, including rabies shots for those planning to visit rural areas. Tickborne encephalitis is common in forested areas during the warmer months.

Switzerland’s increasing popularity as an adventure sports destination has created further risks. Participating in skiing, canyoning, bungee jumping, ice skating and other active sports can result in serious injury or even death. Appropriate safety measures should be observed at all times.

Although Switzerland is justly lauded for its cuisine, it may upset the stomachs of visitors who are not used to the local diet. Avoid raw and undercooked food, and although Swiss tap water is clean, drinking only bottled water is recommended for visitors. Road safety is also a concern, particularly on Switzerland’s winding Alpine routes. Wear a safety belt and observe local traffic laws at all times.

Switzerland’s health care is among the best in the world, with up to date equipment and efficient delivery with minimal waiting times for visiting a doctor or specialist. There is a wide network of hospitals, doctors and health centres, each of which is within convenient reach of all Swiss residents. However, it is also very expensive. Switzerland’s health care is second only to the United States in cost.

While there is no state run public care, nor reciprocal agreements with foreign countries health care systems, the Swiss federal government provides oversight and heavy regulation of the national healthcare system. Mandatory private health care for Swiss citizens and residents is also regulated by the government authorities under the Health Insurance Law of 1996. Foreigners residing in Switzerland must obtain health coverage within three months of moving to the country.

Patients may choose their insurance company among those registered by the “caisse-maladie” or “Krankenkasse”, and basic care is provided by approved insurers, most of which are non-profit. Basic plans usually cover an individual and not dependents, and a 10 percent co-pay is required for most procedures. About one third of pharmaceuticals are covered by basic care plans.

Supplemental health insurance is also available to cover dental treatment, receive private hospital rooms or obtain care outside their home canton. However, most supplemental care providers are for-profit enterprises, which may be a separate branch of a company providing non-profit basic care. Medical bills must be paid within thirty days of issue, and a deposit or proof of coverage may be required before more expensive treatments, even in emergencies.

Switzerland’s natural beauty and culture make it an attractive destination, and its wealth and infrastructure investment contribute greatly to its safety. But as mentioned above, health care costs can be astronomical for those who are unprepared in Switzerland. Expat health insurance is strongly recommended for those planning to travel or relocate to Switzerland.

Switzerland Expat Health Insurance

With the wide range of international health insurance plans on offer, Global Health Insurance can offer you our unbiased advice built upon knowledge and experience. So contact a Global Health Insurance advisor today and get free advice and consulting on what the best insurance coverage for your particular situation is in Switzerland.

Expat health insurance products come with a myriad options for covering yourself; Global Health Insurance has a dedicated team of experienced advisors available to assist you finding the best plan for yourself in Switzerland. Expat health insurance plans available include alternative, maternal, dental and specialist care and can even offer medical air evacuation. Contact a Global Health Insurance representative today for more information.