Everyone needs medical assistance now and then. Due to the much-needed improvements and advancements in the medical sector, the expenses have risen drastically. Health insurance can help you reduce your medical expense burden significantly. In Switzerland, health insurance is mandatory for everyone. Health insurance is mandatory, essential, and pricey.
Do not worry, we have got you covered! Here is a detailed guide on how you can save your pockets from pricey medical expenses. We have compiled everything you need, from basic health insurance to additional top-up insurances, from saving on your premiums to your eligibility for discounts.
What do You need To About Healthcare System In Switzerland?
Switzerland has ranked among the top healthcare countries in the world. The state regulates healthcare is regulated by the state, but the state provides no free medical services. It is mandatory for anyone residing in Switzerland for more than three months to have compulsory health insurance. If the person does not choose health insurance within three months, the state chooses one.
What Is Basic Health Insurance?
Basic health insurance is compulsory health insurance you need to have. You can choose it from a provider of your choice. According to the Health Insurance Act, all health insurance-providing institutions have similar insurance benefits. A person may choose to have additional health insurance along with basic health insurance.
Your basic health insurance includes- illness, accidents, and maternity. Also, if you work more than eight hours a day under the same institution, you are covered under accident insurance. Chances are, your basic insurance does not include everything you need. Though it is not necessary, you might need veteran health insurance. You can choose from public, semi-private, and private providers.
What Are The Different Models I can Choose From?
There are different models you can choose from-
1) HMO models- HMO means health maintenance organization. In HMO models, you must visit the doctors covered under HMO, exceptions being cases of emergencies. You get reduced premiums when you visit doctors under HMO.
2) Free choice of doctor model- In this, you can visit your choice of doctors. It is one of the most expensive models but also the most convenient one.
3) Telmed Model- This is the cheapest model of all. It allows you to call a medical hotline that can be used for self-diagnosis and prescribing needed steps after the diagnosis.
How Can I Save Up On My Insurance Premium?
There are several ways in which you can save up on your premiums. You can opt for deductibles. Deductibles are the fixed sum you have to pay before the insurance company starts paying. The deductible amount is inversely proportional to your premium. You must consider the right amount of deductible. Health insurance comparison in Switzerland [Available in English] offers you complete visibility to compare and evaluate savings options.
By paying your premium in advance or by paying annually, you can get discounts of up to 2 % from your provider. Your premium costs also vary according to your age and medical history. If you fall in the category of children or young adults ( up to age 25) or are elderly (above 60) are eligible for discounts. If you work under civil services, civil protection services, or military, you can put your basic health insurance on hold as the state covers you.
What Should You Know About Additional Health Insurance?
It is not mandatory health insurance. Your premium for additional health insurance is decided based on a medical test taken by the provider at the time of approval. Your age, past medical history, financial conditions play a role in determining your premium. The premium is calculated according to your provider’s guidelines. You don’t need to choose from the same provider that you chose your basic health insurance. Your providers can reject your application if you are chronically ill or your insurance might not cover your illness. Some insurances for young adults include gym memberships and additional vaccinations.
I Am Unemployed What I Should I do?
If you are unemployed or have a low taxable income, then you are eligible for in premium. Your cantonal authority determines your eligibility for subsidized premiums. You can request your local authority to check whether you are eligible or not.
We hope we have made your search for your ideal health care more straightforward and compared health insurance in Switzerland faster. You must recognize your needs along with your financial boundaries. You can contact your local canton authorities for more detailed information about health insurance.