Health Insurance

Swiss health insurance operates under a mandatory system where all residents are required to have basic health insurance coverage. Here is a general overview of how Swiss health insurance works.

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Mandatory Coverage 

​Every resident in Switzerland must purchase basic health insurance, known as LaMal in French and KVG in German, within three months of arrival or birth. This requirement ensures that everyone has access to fundamental healthcare services.

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Basic Insurance

​The basic insurance plan covers various medical services, such as doctor visits, hospital stays in your Canton of residence, and medications. The coverage is comprehensive but may not include certain dental treatments, alternative medicine, or a private room during hospital stays.

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Choice of Insurer​

Residents can choose from various insurance companies offering basic health plans. Although the benefits are standardized by law, premiums vary between providers and Cantons. This allows residents to shop around for the best price and service.

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Premiums and Costs​​

Premiums for basic insurance are paid monthly and can vary based on factors like the insured's age, Canton of residence, and insurer. The Government provides subsides to lower-income individuals and families to help them afford the insurance premiums.

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Deductible and Co-Payments​

Insured persons must pay an annual deductible before the insurance starts covering costs. Deductibles can range from CHF 300 to cHF 2,500. After the deductible is met the insured typically pays a 10% co-payment for services, up to a maximum limit per year.

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Supplementary Insurance

In addition to basic insurance, individuals can purchase supplementary insurance for services not covered by the basic plan, such as dental care, alternative treatments, or the option for a private or semi-private hospital room.

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Free Provider Choice

Patients are usually free to choose their healthcare providers, although some insurance models, such as Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs), might restrict choice to a network of doctors and hospitals.

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​Regulations and Oversight

The Swiss healthcare system is regulated by the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), which ensures that insurance companies comply with regulations and that the basic coverage is consistent across providers.

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Overall, the Swiss health insurance system is designed to provide comprehensive medical coverage while allowing for some flexibility in choosing insurers and additional coverage options.