Carefree insurance: Everything you need to know about health insurance in Switzerland

Your adventure in Switzerland is around the corner and there is a lot involved. One of the most important things to arrange? Your health insurance! The Swiss system works slightly differently than in the Netherlands, but don't worry: we'll explain it to you in a crystal clear way. From the mandatory basic policy to the differences in deductibles: at takeoff, we make sure you know exactly how it works.

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Carefree insurance: Everything you need to know about health insurance in Switzerland

Your adventure in Switzerland is around the corner and there is a lot involved. One of the most important things to arrange? Your health insurance! The Swiss system works slightly differently than in the Netherlands, but don't worry: we'll explain it to you in a crystal clear way. From the mandatory basic policy to the differences in deductibles: at takeoff, we make sure you know exactly how it works.

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Swiss basic health insurance: Here's what you need to know

If you live or work in Switzerland, you are required to take out Swiss basic health insurance. Good news: you have 3 months to arrange this after moving. And do you work more than 8 hours a week with an employer? Then you are automatically insured for accidents via your employer. Easy!
An important advantage: insurers have an obligation to accept the basic insurance, which means that no one can refuse you. That provides certainty!

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Costs & Deductibles: This is how it works

We're not going to lie: health insurances in Switzerland are more expensive than in other countries in Europe. The exact premiums depend on:
- Your age
- The health insurer you choose
- The canton where you live
- The flexible deductible you choose

Pro tip: you opt for a higher deductible (max. CHF 2500), then 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 2500.

Once your annual deductible has been used up, the health insurer pays 90% of the costs. You still contribute 10% up to a maximum of CHF 700 per year. After that, all insured costs will be fully reimbursed!

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The different models: Choose what's right for you

In Switzerland, you can choose from a variety of health insurance models. Put below
we have listed them for you, from the most affordable option to the most complete:

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1. Telemed model - Medical advice by phone

- With this model, you always call the telemedicine advice center for medical care first
advice.
- You will receive a diagnosis or a referral to a doctor by phone.
- The premiums are attractive because you first take the telephone intermediate step.
- In case of an emergency, you can see a doctor immediately.

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2. Multimed - General Practitioner meets Telemed

- This model combines your doctor with the benefits of Telemed.
- You have the choice: call your doctor or the telemedicine advice center first.
- Reduced personal contribution: CHF 400 instead of CHF 700 per year.
- Treatments are digitally coordinated.

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3. HMO model - The power of a network

- Your first point of contact is a doctor from a medical network or group practice.
- This doctor will refer you to a specialist or hospital if necessary.
- Your doctor network phone number also serves as an emergency number.

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4. General practice model - Directly to the doctor

- Your doctor is always your first point of contact.
- Your doctor will arrange your treatment and refer you to specialists.
- In case of an emergency, contact your doctor first.

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5. Standard model - Complete freedom

- Free choice of doctor and specialist
- Most flexible option, but also the most expensive.

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Our tip: CSS Insurance

At takeoff, we are very enthusiastic about CSS's services as a health insurer. They offer competitive premiums and have free programs that promote a healthy lifestyle. Perfect for active physios who love to exercise in the mountains! That's why we've partnered with CSS. Get in touch with takeoff to make an appointment for a free comprehensive consultation where:
- The entire care system has been explained
- You get to know the various basic and additional insurances
- A suitable package will be put together for you
- You may get discounts on additional insurances

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Ready for takeoff?

Do you have questions about health insurance or other aspects of moving to Switzerland? We are here for you! At takeoff, we understand better than anyone what questions there are
live if you take this step — after all, we did it ourselves. Check out our frequently asked questions, get in touch whether join our community and ask all your questions to
physios that came before you!