Healthcare system & finding a doctor
How basic insurance models work, how to find a doctor and how bills are paid.
Insurance models
- Standard: free choice of doctor, highest premium.
- Family doctor (Hausarzt): always start with your GP, lower premium.
- HMO: care through a health centre, usually the cheapest.
- Telmed: call a medical hotline first.
Billing
- Tiers garant: you pay the bill and get reimbursed.
- Tiers payant: the provider bills the insurer directly (common for hospitals and pharmacies).
- You pay the deductible, then 10% co-pay up to CHF 700 per year (adults).
Finding a doctor
- Use your insurer’s list for your model, or the cantonal medical association directory.
- Many GPs are full; ask to be put on a waiting list.
Basic vs supplementary
- Basic insurance (KVG/LAMal) is mandatory and identical in coverage.
- Supplementary insurance (VVG/LCA) is optional; insurers may refuse you based on health.
- Dental care is generally not covered by basic insurance.
General information only, not legal or financial advice. Rules can differ by canton — always check the official source.