how much does doctor visit cost in switzerland

• SWITZERLAND
• NETHERLANDS
• Swiss healthcare system

General Practitioners (GPs) & Doctors in Switzerland

The first step in accessing healthcare in Switzerland is traditionally your general practitioner (GP) or regular doctor. Swiss doctors are highly trained and will be able to provide expert advice and treatment for your medical matters. They are also the first step in admission to a hospital .

Registering with your GP in Switzerland

It is important to register with a general practitioner ( Arzt ) so that you can access healthcare in Switzerland. Your choice of doctors is dependent on the coverage you select as part of your health insurance in Switzerland . There are many aspects you might want to take into consideration when selecting a general practitioner, for instance, if they offer unique or local services, or can speak different languages.

Who can I choose as my Swiss general practitioner?

When looking for a GP, make sure that your chosen doctor is available to take on more patients and offers care to people with your type of insurance. Generally speaking,  supplemental health insurance  will give you more numerous benefits and a wider choice of doctors. This would be beneficial should you want a GP who speaks English or is able to offer a specific service.

General admission health insurance

If your health insurance package only covers general admission, you are only able to select physicians within a certain radius of your council ( Gemeinde ) . Your choice depends on your location and the availability of GPs in your area. Specialist GPs are unavailable with this level of cover. You would have to pay extra for the option to choose your own GP. This is the type of admission given with  basic health insurance .

Semi-private health insurance

Many semi-private health insurance packages include the ability to choose your own GP. This option must be specifically requested and can cause the cost of your insurance to increase, depending on who you choose. With this option, you are able to register with any GP in Switzerland who is within a “reasonable distance” of your locality. The definition of reasonable distance is down to the discretion of your health insurance provider.

Private health insurance

With a private health insurance package, you are almost always able to select your general practitioner, and you may get the opportunity to pick a specialist or more prominent GP, if they are available. Additionally, your health insurance company will be able to assist you in finding a GP that fulfils your requirements, such as the ability to speak English.

Online doctor’s offices

A number of providers in Switzerland are now offering online services that allow you to access health professionals from the comfort of home. For example, Mobidoctor gives you the option of having an online consultation with an English-speaking doctor seven days a week between 8am and 10pm.

Do I have to switch general practitioner if I change my Swiss health insurance?

If you have modified your Swiss health insurance or are taking out a new policy, you must ensure that your new policy allows you to keep your house doctor ( Hausarzt ).

Typically, if you switch from a semi-private package to a general admission package, you will have to pay to keep your old GP if they are a specialist or outside of your local area. Before they prepare a quote, most price comparison websites will ask for the details of your current GP and ask whether you wish to keep them. Bear in mind that this may increase the cost of your new health insurance.

Booking an appointment with a GP in Switzerland

In order to book an appointment with a Swiss general practitioner, you must first call ahead of time. Some GP practices, particularly those in larger cities in Switzerland , may also offer online bookings. Swiss general practitioners typically do not have long waiting lists and will be able to fit you in punctually. While you are on the phone , you should try to describe your condition as accurately as possible so that your problem can be dealt with in the best way.

Booking GP appointments with Telmed health insurance

The process of booking an appointment with a GP is different if you have selected the Telmed model of Swiss health insurance. In this instance, you must call a specialist helpline before you can book an appointment with your GP. This pre-consultation call will take around 20 minutes. If the helpline determines that you need to seek medical attention, they will book you to see your GP or refer you to a hospital.

What do I need to bring to my GP appointment?

Once you have been booked in for an appointment, you will be required to bring the following items:

• Residence permit for Switzerland or proof of ID
• Health insurance card
• Any non-prescription medication you have used to treat your condition

Next steps after your appointment with a general practitioner in Switzerland

Once you have been to your GP and have had a full consultation, you may, if necessary, be referred to the next stages in your care. Depending on your condition, this may include:

• Prescription medication from a pharmacy in Switzerland
• Referral to a doctor or specialist
• Admission to a hospital in Switzerland

Paying for an appointment at a Swiss general practitioner

The healthcare system in Switzerland is almost completely privatised, which means that it is the responsibility of the health insurance system to pay for part of your healthcare, with the other part being paid through your premium and deductible. Your GP will charge for their services through your health insurance card.

Emergency care in Switzerland

If you are in a serious condition or have suffered an accident, it is always best to contact the emergency services . People who have suffered an injury are able to bypass general practitioners if it is clear and obvious that medical attention is required.

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Finding and registering with a doctor - A guide for expats in Switzerland

Moving is an exciting time. Visiting a doctor is certainly not your first priority when you are newly arrived in Switzerland. Nevertheless, it is beneficial to find out about how to find a doctor and register early on so that you are prepared in case of an emergency. In this article, you will find all the important information about this.

Just like the education system , the health care system in Switzerland is one of the best in the world. In case of illness or accident, the health insurance covers a certain part of the costs. Therefore, it is important that you take out a health insurance within the first three months after your relocation to Switzerland. This is required by law and primarily protects yourself. The health insurance must be paid retroactively to the date of entry.

How do I search and find a suitable doctor in Switzerland for me?

There are different insurance models in Switzerland. When looking for a doctor it depends, among others, on which model of insurance you have. All persons living in Switzerland have in principle free choice of doctor in the basic insurance. However, if you choose a more favorable model, your choice may be limited, which consequently also leads to a reduction in premiums.

In the standard model, you may choose your doctor for all treatments. With alternative models, you are required to go to points of contact such as health centers, pharmacies or family doctors/group practices. The Telmed model is also becoming increasingly popular. In the event of an illness, a preliminary clarification is first made by telephone with experts. However, to ensure that you also receive direct personal support in an emergency and do not have to wait a long time in the emergency room, we recommend that you always seek out a family doctor or family practice. Through repeated contact, the doctor also knows about any allergies, medical history and more, which is important. In the event of an emergency, a visit to a gynecologist or ophthalmologist, as well as maternity treatment, you also have a free choice of doctor for almost all models.

Where can I find a suitable family doctor?

If you already have a family doctor but the practice closes, he or she will usually take care of placing you with another practice or recommend other practices. If this is not the case, you can contact the medical association in your canton of residence. Depending on the insurance model, however, even the health insurance company will give you information about the available general practitioners who work with them, thus limiting your choice at the same time.

The homepage of your insurance company can also be helpful here. Often, you can also search for family doctors in your surroundings on these and find treating physicians who cooperate with the insurance company.

Online, there are also numerous portals where you can enter your place of residence to find doctors or practices in your area. These include:

• Doctorfmh.ch

What should I look for when searching?

It is important that you pay attention to the following points, among others, when choosing a doctor:

• Professional license : It is important that the doctor is licensed to practice. Information on this can be found in the medical directory or medical professional register (medreg.admin.ch).
• Certifications/Continuing Education : Find out about any training or continuing education the doctor has received. In official directories such as the Medizinalberufreregister, you can view this information online. In principle, physicians must undergo continuing education at regular intervals.
• No flashy practice moves: Be wary of practices that have moved their location to another canton in recent years. This is because such relocations are an indication of requirements imposed by the cantonal physician. And these requirements can differ from canton to canton.
• Interpersonal factors: Since your family doctor is often the first point of contact for medical complaints, he or she should be sympathetic to you. Only if you can establish a relationship of trust and share your concerns can you also receive optimal advice and treatment.

Registration and first visit to the doctor

What is the procedure for registering with the doctor?

Registration can be done in a number of ways. Virtually all primary care physicians' offices can be reached by phone as well as email, so these are probably the most commonly used ways to register for a new visit. Another option would be to register in person on site. However, a prerequisite for successful registration and admission is that the doctor has sufficient free capacity, which is not always the case given the shortage of doctors in Switzerland. You have a better chance of being admitted if you have either been referred by your old family doctor, if you have a group practice or family doctor model in your health insurance, or generally with new practices. However, since new residents usually do not have a primary care physician in Switzerland yet because they have recently moved in, there is no referral possible.

What do I have to pay attention to at the first visit?

At your first visit, you will have to fill out a personal data sheet, which the practices need to record your data. For this, be sure to bring your ID as well as your health insurance card. In addition, it is advisable to request your records from your previous primary care physician. These give insight into the previous medical history and show applied treatments, as well as allergies and more.

Are you new in Switzerland and need professional support and advice? We will be happy to explain everything you need to know about living in Switzerland, find the right health insurance for you and accompany you personally and competently. Contact us now !

How expats can find the right health insurance in Switzerland

Navigating the Swiss health insurance system can be challenging for expats, but finding the right plan to meet all your needs is crucial. Within three months of arriving in Switzerland, expats are required to secure compulsory basic health insurance. Failure to do so can result in back payments and fines.

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How do I change my health insurance?

As the fall and winter seasons approach, it's a reminder for many to think about switching health insurance providers. You are not satisfied with your health insurance and are considering switching to another insurance company? In this article you will find all the important information about changing your health insurance.

Splitting health insurance: Great for expats in Switzerland

Rising healthcare costs are a cause for concern, especially in light of the average premium hike of 9% in 2024, with further increases in the years to come. In such challenging times, many people in Switzerland are seeking ways to minimize their financial burden. This is where "splitting" comes into play.

Who pays for my medication in Switzerland?

Medications are becoming increasingly complex, and new pharmaceuticals are hitting the market often at high price points. Expat Services Switzerland is here to inform expats to the country on how your medications, vaccinations, and check-ups are paid for.

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Health Insurance and Healthcare in Switzerland Explained

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While operating under universal healthcare, Switzerland’s healthcare system and health insurance is slightly different than in other European countries because they work in tandem. Switzerland has universal healthcare, but it is paid for by the individual rather than through taxes or by your employer. This means that anyone entering Switzerland must have basic health insurance. If you are in Switzerland for longer than three months, even as a tourist, you must be covered by a recognized Swiss health insurance provider.

This guide provides an overview of the Swiss healthcare system, so that you and your dependents can be fully covered upon your arrival. We cover everything from how to obtain health insurance to finding a doctor and even the specifics on giving birth while in the Alpine country.

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How Healthcare Works in Switzerland

If you are moving to Switzerland, obtaining Swiss health insurance is one of the first things you must do. However, as a foreigner, you cannot sign-up for the Swiss healthcare system until you have arrived in the country and applied for your residence permit or registered with a local cantonal authority. Although you may not receive a residence permit right away, you only need to show proof of your pending application and current residency to take out a policy.

Because you must obtain healthcare coverage within 90 days of your arrival, it is advisable to begin your search before landing in Switzerland.

Switzerland Health Care Facts

• Compared to other European countries, Switzerland spends the highest GDP (over 12%) on healthcare.
• You can only change your health insurance provider or package once a year. You must give notice if you want to change. Some health insurance providers offer bi-annual cancellation options, but these require three-months’ notice.
• The only exceptions for mandatory health insurance are cross-border workers, retirees with EU/EFTA pensions, temporary students with international insurance, and certain officials and diplomats.

Does Switzerland have Free Public Healthcare?

Even though Switzerland’s healthcare system is universal, there is no free public healthcare in Switzerland. Instead, all residents of Switzerland must pay for their own private health insurance. This applies to both Swiss nationals and foreign expats.

How does Healthcare Work in Switzerland?

In Switzerland, everyone must be covered by private insurance companies. Even children and dependents require their own individual health plan. Therefore, it is up to each Swiss resident to figure out how to get health insurance in Switzerland.

To ensure all citizens are able to receive coverage, the Swiss government mandates that all insurance providers offer a basic level of health care coverage. Health insurance providers are also not allowed to reject applicants for any reason.

Healthcare in Switzerland is of high-quality and is competitively priced from canton to canton. Because of this, deciphering how much health insurance costs depends on your specific canton as well as the medical treatment you require because you will often be expected to pay certain fees out of pocket.

Expats should also be aware that there is no Medicare in Switzerland, nor a Swiss equivalent. Even retirees must continue to pay for their own private health insurance.

What does the Basic Healthcare Cover?

Basic healthcare coverage in Switzerland can sometimes be confused with public healthcare because it is mandatory for all citizens. However, basic healthcare coverage is still offered through private insurance companies. Because insurance is mandated by law, basic coverage is identical across all Swiss insurance providers. You can expect to find the following covered:

• general check-ups and treatments
• hospital visits, including inpatient, outpatient, and emergency services
• rehabilitation services
• prescription costs
• some mental healthcare
• maternity care
• dental emergencies
• gynecological exams
• vaccinations
• certain medical aids and devices
• cancer screenings
• eye care for people under 18, and serious illness
• some alternative therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathy

Under a basic healthcare plan, between 80–90% of your medical costs should be covered. For a more comprehensive list, please see the Swiss government’s website .

Switzerland Healthcare System Pros and Cons

• Because basic healthcare is mandatory, every resident in Switzerland is entitled to the same coverage and standard of care. This means that even if you have a pre-existing condition, a Swiss health insurance company cannot deny you coverage, nor can they charge you exorbitant amounts when compared to someone who does not have a pre-existing condition.
• Depending on your age and the insurance package that you choose, you will pay this same fee for as long as you are in Switzerland. If you get sick or injured, your insurance rate will not increase.
• Healthcare standards across the country are high, and expats will have no problem receiving excellent care no matter where in Switzerland they require treatment.
• Healthcare in Switzerland is expensive, and you will pay for most treatment out-of-pocket and be reimbursed later.
• Any stay in Switzerland exceeding 90 days requires health insurance. Even if you are only moving to Switzerland for half a year, and feel that you are generally healthy, you are legally required to get private health insurance.

Why is Switzerland’s Healthcare so Expensive?

Switzerland is renowned for its expense, but many expats are still surprised by how expensive healthcare is, especially when compared to neighboring EU countries. Switzerland’s healthcare system is known as one of the best in the world, but also one of the most expensive.

Part of the reason for the Switzerland’s health care costs is that a significant portion of the healthcare system is funded by the government mandated private insurance premiums. This means that in order to cover their own business expenses and high standard medical costs, healthcare providers must charge more money from private individuals. Generic drugs are also not common in Switzerland, forcing residents to shell out for expensive name brand items. On average, Swiss residents spend nearly 10% of their salary on health insurance costs.

An Overview of Private Health Insurance

Switzerland has one of the largest private healthcare sectors in the world. As an expat, you will need to secure private insurance within three months of your arrival. Because of this, you will need to know how health insurance works immediately upon your arrival, if not sooner.

Do you need Health Insurance in Switzerland?

Health insurance is mandatory in Switzerland. Because the only option is private insurance, healthcare providers are not allowed to refuse coverage to anyone for any reason. Everyone, including family members or other dependents, must have their own individual insurance. Babies are automatically insured upon birth, but parents must apply for the infant’s coverage within three months of the birthdate.

When people talk about private health insurance in Switzerland, they are usually talking about supplementary insurance that can be purchased in addition to the basic insurance plans. Many Swiss residents choose to add on supplementary insurance as it gives them a wider range of treatment, greater choice of hospitals and doctors, and better accommodation if they require an overnight stay.

Health Insurance Coverage

Healthcare in Switzerland is run at the cantonal level. As a result, it is expensive and competitive, but also of high quality no matter where you go. Both public and private hospitals have high standards and modern facilities. The main difference between the two are cost and wait time. In a private hospital, patients will pay more out of pocket, however their wait time is less, and they may have greater luck finding specialized services. Public hospitals will have cheaper rates, but wait times are longer and you may have to go with whichever doctor is available.

Average Health Insurance Cost in Switzerland

Medical insurance companies are not allowed to profit off of basic healthcare plans. Instead, their money comes from what they make off of other schemes.

The average health insurance cost in Switzerland varies by canton to canton. Below is a list of the most expensive and least expensive cantons.

Most Expensive Cantons

Basel-Stadt CHF USD Adults 480 490 Young Adult 370 380

Geneva CHF USD Adults 480 490 Young Adults 380 390

Basel-Landschaft CHF USD Adults 430 440 Young Adults 320 330

Least Expensive Cantons

Appenzell Ausserhoben CHF USD Adults 260 270 Young Adults 180 180

Uri CHF USD Adults 260 270 Young Adults 180 180

Nidwalden CHF USD Adults 290 300 Young Adults 200 200

Types of Health Insurance Plans

In addition to the basic health insurance plan, there are other types of insurance plans available in Switzerland.

• HMO: this plan is a discounted plan. Users are restricted to only using specified doctors and hospitals.
• Flexcare: with this plan, users can call a hotline for complementary consultation before visiting a doctor or hospital in person.
• Premium: these plans are more costly but include visits to private hospitals and specialists.

How to Find a Doctor or Dentist

Learning how to find a doctor or dentist in Switzerland is dependent on your health insurance. On the whole, Swiss residents have free range over their choice of doctor, but if you opt for a cheaper health insurance policy then you may be limited as to your choices.

Swiss doctors largely require booking appointments in advance. Keep in mind that there may be a penalty fee if you cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice. More comprehensive insurance plans may allow you to consult a specialist directly, while others will require you be referred by a family doctor.

Your insurance provider should have a list detailing how to find a family doctor or how to find specialist within their network. However, if you want to search on your own, you can use these directories:

• Swiss Medical Association
• Swiss Yellow Pages

Although not included with every insurance plan, you can also use these sites to find a dentist.

Average Wait Time to see a Doctor in Switzerland

Long wait times in Switzerland are not common, nor are long waiting lists. On average, you should be able to see a doctor on the same day that you make your appointment.

Giving Birth in Switzerland

When it comes to giving birth in Switzerland, non-residents have a lot of options. For starters, women can choose to give birth in a hospital, at a birthing center, or at home, and midwives are easy to come by.

Have a Baby in Switzerland as a Foreigner

Having a baby in Switzerland as a foreigner before you are covered by insurance may be costly: nearly 7,000–9,000 CHF (7,100—9,100 USD) depending on whether you need a C-section or not. If you arrive in Switzerland around the time of your due date, you would be wise to acquire health insurance immediately, or try to have the baby in your previous country. It is only possible to have a baby in Switzerland without health insurance if you have just arrived or if you are a tourist.

Once you have health insurance, even the basic plan, the cost of having a baby in Switzerland is largely covered. Depending on your insurance plan, you may even be able to get private maternity options and ante-natal classes covered.

The Benefits of Giving Birth in Switzerland

While one of the greatest benefits to giving birth in Switzerland is the excellent care you will receive, other perks are for the child. For example, while giving birth in Switzerland does not automatically grant citizenship, if you give birth as a permanent Swiss resident then your child may be able to claim Swiss citizenship at a later date.

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Inside the Swiss health care system: How often do people visit doctors – and how much do they pay for coverage?

A look at the range of complaints brought to the typical Swiss doctor’s office, broken out by age and gender. Insurance system data also shows just how much each kind of patient is paying into the system, and what they’re getting back.

Seven patients wait to be examined in Dr. Bruno Taglio's waiting room.

If there were a typical Swiss doctor's office, it would look like that of Bruno Taglio, a general practitioner and pediatrician. Magazines and vaccination brochures lie on the table, with chairs clustered around it. Taglio's diploma as a specialist in general internal medicine hangs on the wall, and somewhere there is a houseplant. This waiting room is as fictional as the doctor, like his seven patients waiting to be examined – but it is also as true to the reality of the Swiss healthcare system as possible.

The seven people described here, ranging from little girls to old women, typify real patients. They represent the average – and their names also reflect the Swiss population. Mia, Luca and Sarah are the most common first names in each respective age group, for example. We look here at the following questions: How often and with what complaints do people come to general practitioners’ offices, and what diagnosis do they receive? How high are the premiums they pay – and how much do they cost the health insurance system? The underlying data was provided by Felix Huber of the Medix physician network and Helsana, one of the country's largest health insurers. Helsana's customers are fairly representative of the Swiss population.

Mia, six years old

Luca, 21 years old, sarah, 32 years old, pregnant, daniel, 45 years old, claudia, 57 years old, hans, 70 years old, maria, 86 years old.

Mia slides restlessly back and forth on one of the chairs. Her father brought the kindergartener to the doctor's office that morning because she had a fever of 39.7 degrees Celsius during the night, was coughing badly and complained of a sore throat. Dr. Taglio calls Mia into the treatment room first. He quickly examines her throat and ears, then says the diagnosis is clear: a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. A common occurrence among children during cold season. «Nothing alarming,» Taglio says, giving the father medicine to bring down his daughter’s fever. In addition, he advises, Mia should stay in bed and drink plenty of fluids until she feels better.

The examination costs the parents only a few Swiss francs. The deductible for children is zero, with only a 10% co-payment for the medical bill itself. In any case, children place little financial burden on the insurance system. Mia, for example, generates annual costs of just 850 francs. However, her parents pay 1,200 francs in premiums for her per year.

Next it's Luca's turn. The business administration student and amateur handball player is physically in top shape. But like many of his peers, he suffers from psychological problems. The stress of the exams has taken a toll on Luca. In the mornings, he has troubles getting out of bed. When he thinks about his professional future or climate change, his throat tightens. Taglio assumes that Luca is suffering from mild depression. The doctor prescribes him an antidepressant, and asks him to come back for a follow-up visit soon. If Luca's condition does not improve, a referral to a psychiatrist or psychotherapist may be necessary.

Redistribution between generations

Luca's annual insurance-premium bill amounts to 3,200 francs, 800 francs of which is paid by his canton of residence through the premium reduction program. The rest is paid by his parents, with whom he still lives. As is the case for most young people, his insurance premiums are significantly higher than the amount he costs the company, which is just 1,600 francs a year. This redistribution from young to old is an intentional matter of policy.

The third patient's name is Sarah. She will have her first child in a few months, in her early 30s, like most Swiss mothers. But she didn't come to her primary care doctor for that. She came because she has numbness in her right hand, and sometimes pain that radiates into her arm. Taglio immediately suspects that it is carpal tunnel syndrome. In such a case, a nerve in the wrist is being put under pressure by swollen tissue. The risk of such complaints rises somewhat during pregnancy. Sarah is given a splint to wear on the affected arm at night to make the numbness go away.

Sarah is particularly expensive this year, costing the insurance system 8,500 francs, an amount not even half covered by her premiums. This has little to do with her hand, but much to do with her expected child. Like all women in Switzerland, she does not have to pay for pregnancy and childbirth out of her own pocket, because there is neither a deductible nor a copayment.

An average 32-year-old woman who does not have a child receives insurance-covered medical services worth only 2,800 francs per year. The difference with respect to Sarah's costs corresponds quite closely to the costs of her pregnancy. For a childbirth without a Caesarean section or complications, a Swiss hospital charges the insurance system around 5,000 Swiss francs; for one with complications, it would charge around 6,500 Swiss francs. Childbearing women are also the population group most likely to be hospitalized. 

According to a 2006 study, the high cost associated with pregnancy and gynecological treatments in general is one of the main reasons why women are significantly more expensive for basic insurance than men, especially during the first half of life. This temporarily reverses only after the age of 60 – possibly a consequence of the fact that women tend to live healthier lives and also invest more in prevention. Across all age groups, according to Helsana data, men receive insurance-funded health care services worth 4,000 Swiss francs per year, while the comparable total for all women is 5,100 francs. Women with health insurance also go to the doctor more often (18 visits per year) than do men (12).

Women are more expensive – until the men turn 60

Daniel comes to the doctor’s office for a routine checkup, feeling healthy despite being a few pounds overweight. But when Taglio puts a cuff on his upper arm to measure his blood pressure, the doctor frowns. At 155 over 105, the patient’s blood pressure is clearly too high. Daniel has had no symptoms so far, which is typical – and insidious. High blood pressure damages the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke. A blood test reveals that Daniel also has elevated cholesterol levels.

The doctor prescribes Daniel medication for his blood pressure and cholesterol, and asks him to come in for regular checkups in the coming months. He is also concerned about Daniel's mental health. The trained forestry worker has been out of work for several months, and has done little exercise and eaten too much during that time.

Since losing his job, Daniel has been receiving a premium reduction – like 27% of the Swiss population. He would have trouble paying the full health insurance bill of 4,500 francs per year. The health insurance company will have to pay over 4,000 francs for his treatments this year. He is a typical case for people in difficult economic circumstances, who are significantly more likely to develop diabetes, high blood pressure or back problems.

Men without premium reductions at this age generate costs that are only half as high. They have slightly lower premiums than Daniel because they have chosen higher deductibles – knowing that they will probably rarely need to see a doctor.

The fifth patient is named Claudia. The lawyer has had pain in her right hand for several weeks; tasks like cooking or weeding the garden have been giving her trouble. Taglio examines the small nodules that have formed on the finger joints and X-rays the hand. His findings: polyarthritis, probably hereditary. Claudia receives an analgesic and anti-inflammatory ointment.

The 57-year-old has supplementary hospital insurance, a luxury she can afford. She is now at an age where she pays almost as much money into health insurance as she draws from it. Women of this age who do not have private insurance spend exactly the same amount on basic insurance as the lawyer. However, there are clear differences in health care costs: Claudia's basic insurance costs are 1,000 francs less per year, and she goes to the doctor slightly less often.

Again, this reflects the fact that better educated people with high incomes tend to be healthier. Women like Claudia also go to the hospital somewhat less often than their peers without supplementary insurance. This comes as a surprise. Experts in the industry have frequently expressed the suspicion that privately insured patients run a particularly high risk of being operated on unnecessarily – because operations on them are so lucrative. Recently, researchers at the University of Basel and the cantonal hospital in Aarau found that privately insured patients in fact receive heart treatments more often than those with general insurance. Other studies were unable to demonstrate such a connection . 

Hans is at an age when doctor's visits have become routine. In all, he will make 20 appearances at the general practitioner’s offices by the end of the year. This time, the retiree has come for his persistent cough, which has plagued him for a long time. Taglio diagnosed chronic bronchitis last year. In Hans' case, the reason is clear: He is a chain smoker. He has been unable to give up cigarettes, as his doctor has urged him to do. So Taglio has no choice but to relieve the symptoms with a spray that dilates the bronchial tubes.

Premiums are basically the same for all adults over the age of 25. The only reason older people pay a little more on average is that they tend to opt for lower deductibles, and pay to give themselves a free choice of doctor. This is why Hans spends almost 5,000 francs per year on basic insurance. For his insurance provider, he is a clear loss, receiving health benefits worth 8,000 francs. This difference increases with each year of life. However, risk equalization among health insurers ensures that insurers with many old and sick customers are not at a financial disadvantage. 

Maria has had a long and full life. But this one is coming to an end. When Taglio greets her, she does not yet know that she will not celebrate the next Christmas with her children and grandchildren. She complains of shortness of breath and chest pain. He refers her to a specialist for a mammogram. This will determine that the problem is an aggressive breast cancer that has metastasized to her liver, lungs and brain.

In view of the advanced stage of the cancer and the patient's age, the doctors decide against a course of radiation or chemotherapy. Instead, Maria receives palliative treatment so that she can spend her remaining months as pain-free as possible. During this time, she has a total of over 50 medical consultations. This, along with the stay in a hospice at the end, comes at a price: up to the point of her death, Maria costs the health insurance provider 14,000 francs.

That sounds like a lot of money. But more often than not, dying is even more expensive. According to a 2017 study, health insurers are charged an average of more than 30,000 francs in the last year of an insured person's life. Cancer is the main reason for these exorbitantly high costs. Especially in younger patients, the medical system does everything in its power to win the battle against a tumor. By contrast, insured persons who are taken suddenly from life – for example, due to heart failure or an accident – naturally cost the insurance less.

Researchers have found that women die more cheaply than men, on average. They can only speculate about the reasons. It may have to do with the fact that most women die after their partners – and the medical system may do less to fight for their lives than for the lives of their husbands a few years earlier.

Taglio is used to covering the entire medical and social spectrum. He accompanies people from the cradle to the deathbed. He cares for patients with leukemia and those with an ingrown toenail, for mansion-dwellers and the unemployed. Average? From his point of view, there is no such person at the practice.

By the time he has treated his first seven patients, it is already noon. Taglio quickly eats a ham and cheese sandwich and then glances around the waiting room. The next patients are already sitting there.

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Discover Comparis

Doctor search Switzerland

The medical directory for switzerland.

Over 50,000 providers

Find a suitable specialist, practice or hospital in your area.

Accepting new patients status

Check whether doctors are accepting new patients.

Easy to get in touch

Contact doctors, practices and hospitals quickly and easily online, by phone or by fax.

Important details about doctors, drugs and medicine

Here you’ll find important information at a glance.

Finding a suitable doctor or specialist – how it works:

Healthy teeth

Here you’ll find information on the subject of dental hygiene, whitening, braces and more.  

Dermatology

Read articles on the subject of dermatology here.  

Guide to medicine and drugs

Discover the pros and cons of drugs such as Ritalin and antidepressants.  

Search practice

Find a doctor, practice or hospital in 4 steps, search by name, medical field and location.

The two search fields will help you find the most suitable doctor, practice or hospital for you more quickly.

In the first field, “Medical field or name”, you can enter either a medical specialization, such as family doctor or cardiology, or the name of a doctor, practice or hospital. Choose the provider from the options provided, and the results and profile page will be displayed directly. Alternatively, you can find an overview of all medical fields here .

In the second field, you can enter a postcode or location to narrow your search. You can see a list of locations here .

Choose a suitable doctor

Comparis generates a list of doctors, practices and hospitals that match your search criteria. The search results are ranked according to objectively measurable criteria. This includes, for example, the option to book an appointment online or information on the admission of new patients. What priority these objectively measurable criteria have may change for testing purposes. You can refine your search using the filters at any time.

You can click on “Show map” to see where exactly the doctors are located. Click on the pins to view their profile pages. Click on the relevant button to receive corresponding information.

The articles below contain tips to help you find the right medical professional for your needs:

Find a family doctor

Find a gynaecologist

Find a paediatrician

Contact online or by telephone

Once you have found your doctor, practice or hospital, you can contact them via the medical directory.

To do this, click on the doctor, practice or hospital to display the detailed view. Here you will find various ways to contact them, from contact forms to telephone numbers. Note that, as a rule, both direct lines and practice/hospital numbers are listed.

How searching for a doctor works

This directory contains providers that accept contact requests from Comparis , as well as providers that do not accept contact requests from Comparis. The providers shown on this comparison tool have published data that Comparis can access, or have published data to which Comparis has access via the following service providers: FOPH, SM Marketing; EQUAM.

The search results are ranked according to objectively measurable criteria. This includes, for example, the option to book an appointment online or information on the admission of new patients. What priority these objectively measurable criteria have may change for testing purposes.

Find family doctors in the biggest Swiss cities

Find family doctors in the biggest Swiss cities via Comparis

FAQs on the medical directory and visiting a doctor

How can i tell if a doctor is a good one.

On our info page about visiting the doctor you can find articles that will help you find the right family doctor , gynaecologist , paediatrician or specialist.

Where can I find the right doctor?

The easiest way to find the right doctor is with the Comparis medical directory. With more than 40,000 doctors and 20,000 practices, we maintain the most complete register of physicians in Switzerland.

You can simply enter the specialist area and the desired location in the search and see which doctors or specialists are available where you are and if they are accepting new patients.

How do I know whether the doctor will accept me as a new patient?

The profile page for doctors and practices shows whether they are accepting new patients.

Unfortunately, this information is not yet available for all the doctors and practices listed. You can ask about the status of patient admissions using the contact function. We are working to expand admission status information and to show it for as many doctors as possible.

What is the medical directory and who is behind it?

The medical directory lists over 40,000 doctors from all 46 specialist fields recognized in Switzerland – from allergology to dentistry . It lists all the contact details for doctors and medical practices, rather like an electronic telephone directory. You’ll find useful information such as a doctor’s specialist fields, professional development activities and quality accreditations. Regular updates and further developments ensure that you can find the right doctor for you even faster.

Where does the data in the medical directory come from?

The Comparis medical directory lists over 40,000 doctors in Switzerland. It therefore represents the majority of all doctors working in the country.

The directory draws on information from a range of publicly available sources. We will update the directory correspondingly if we receive a relevant report. Reports can come from:

Private data providers 

What’s the easiest way to find a doctor near me?

Search the Comparis medical directory to find suitable doctors in your area quickly and easily. In the search window, enter the name or the specialist field and the desired location. We’ll then show you the most relevant doctors or specialists from our register.

The results page is sorted according to the following criteria: 

Relevance after entering your details

Name or specialist field

Activated filters

Profiles with online appointment booking activated

Profiles with profile picture

Profiles that accept new patients

Clicking on one of the green pins on the map on the results page will display a short profile of the doctor, practice or hospital. Use filters to refine the results further.

How do I book an appointment with a doctor online?

With the Comparis medical directory, you can easily book appointments with an ever increasing number of doctors online under the following conditions:

The practices have an online booking function.

Comparis can directly or indirectly access the booking function.

In the search window, enter the doctor’s name or specialist field or the location. Then select the “Online appointment booking” filter. Only doctors offering online appointment bookings will be shown.

For doctors: where can I report new registrations, changes and deletions?

Please send us an email at [email protected] . We will contact you as soon as possible.

Gynaecologists

• Schaffhausen
• Biel/Bienne

Psychiatry and psychotherapy

Ophthalmologists, dermatologists.

• Kreuzlingen

Important topics about doctors and treatment

Comparis gives advice on what to watch out for when it comes to doctors and treatment.

Compare aligner prices in Zurich

Medical directory

How much does dental hygiene cost in Switzerland?

Doctors without a licence to practise, options for online psychotherapy, find the right family doctor, view the hospital directory.

Health Insurance in Switzerland: Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing The Best Student Plan

How Does Healthcare Work in Switzerland?

The first thing you need to know is that Switzerland has universal healthcare that is paid for by the individual rather than through government taxes or by the employer. Health insurance in Switzerland is mandatory for anyone living in Switzerland or visiting for more than three months. It provides cover for accidents, illness, and maternity. You are free to choose your insurer, and as an insured individual, you have to pay a monthly contribution. Keep in mind that as an international student, special provisions may apply, or you may be eligible for an exemption from the Swiss health insurance obligation. So, clarify your situation as soon as you take up residency in Switzerland, and if you are not eligible for an exemption, choose your insurer. 

Swiss Healthcare System Pros and Cons

• Healthcare is mandatory, so every resident in Switzerland is entitled to the same coverage and standard of care. So, even if you have a pre-existing condition, a Swiss health insurance company can’t deny you coverage or charge you much more compared to someone who does not have any medical condition.
• You will pay the same rate for as long as you are in Switzerland. Even if you get injured or sick, your fee will not increase.
• Healthcare standards across Switzerland are very high, so rest assured that you will receive excellent healthcare and treatment. 
• The health coverage includes accidents, illnesses, emergencies, and maternity care. Plus, home visits are covered by insurance in most cases. Not to forget that physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, nursing care, and nutritional counseling are also covered if the doctor recommends them.
• The quality of the care is outstanding. You can expect excellent care, modern facilities, and world-class physicians.
• Healthcare in Switzerland is quite expensive.
• Patients have to pay for most of their treatment out-of-pocket, but they are reimbursed later.
• Any stay in Switzerland that exceeds 90 days requires health insurance. So, even if you go for a three-month visit and feel healthy, you are legally required to get private health insurance.

An Overview of Private Health Insurance

What you need to know is that you can take out optional supplementary health insurance at an extra cost from the same or another insurer. Plus, you can choose the amount of coverage you want from a private insurer. Read on if you want to learn more about private health insurance in Switzerland. 

Does Switzerland have free healthcare?

Although Switzerland has a universal healthcare system, it does not have free public healthcare. All Switzerland residents have to pay for their own private health insurance. This applies to students, as well as visitors, if their visit lasts more than three months. 

Do you need Health Insurance in Switzerland?

Health insurance in Switzerland is compulsory, meaning that all residents in this country must have health insurance. So, if you plan to stay in Switzerland for more than 90 days, you are legally required to have health insurance. 

So, simply put, you need health insurance in Switzerland if:

• You are a resident of the country, regardless of your nationality. Also, all your family members will need insurance as well.
• You have a residence permit valid for more than 90 days.
• You have a work contract in Switzerland and do not have equivalent health insurance from another country.
• You have come to Switzerland with the intention of taking up residence.
• You are a Swiss national or a national of an EU/EFTA country, working in Switzerland and are resident in an EU member state, in Iceland or Norway. This is also applicable to your unemployed family members.
• You are a Swiss national or a national of an EU/EFTA country whose only income is a Swiss unemployed benefit or pension. And also if you are resident in a member state of the EU, in Iceland or Norway. This is also applicable to your unemployed family members. 
• You are an employee temporarily posted abroad by your Swiss employer. This is also applicable to any unemployed family members.

How Does Private Health Insurance Work?

Keep in mind that risk factors including age, existing health conditions, and lifestyle may determine premiums, meaning it can be a bit expensive for some. And even though companies must provide basic healthcare insurance, they are not obliged to provide a supplementary package to someone they view to be high risk.

What are the benefits of having private health insurance?

Benefits may vary from policy to policy, but they usually involve:

• Orthodontic treatment
• Spectacles or contact lenses
• Choice of the doctor when one needs treatment

Swiss Health Insurance Plans, Costs, and Reimbursements

Now we will explore the two most important types of health insurance plans in Switzerland, how much Swiss insurance will cost you and how you can reduce it, what it covers, as well as claiming reimbursements.

Types of health insurance plans

As we have already mentioned, there are some differences in Swiss health insurance, and these differences are often caused by the insurance plan types, including business insurance plans . Here are the main two types of health insurance plans:

Basic healthcare plan

Health insurance benefits, also known as compulsory basic healthcare insurance, are precisely defined under the Swiss Federal Health Insurance Act. That is why all health insurers in Switzerland offer the same benefits under basic insurance. The basic healthcare plan assumes the basic costs of treatment in the case of illnesses, accidents, and maternity. Mandatory basic insurance guarantees basic coverage for everyone. However, there are gaps. This plan does not cover every treatment, especially when it comes to individual requirements, which can result in high health costs such as dentistry, prenatal care, travel insurance, and so on.

Supplementary insurance

Supplementary insurance provides a smart complement to basic insurance and helps you close all the gaps of the basic healthcare plan. This type of insurance covers dentistry, alternative medicine, prenatal care, travel insurance, enhanced hospital care, etc. You can benefit from the free selection of doctors and hospitals or entitlement to a private hospital room. This type of insurance is also useful when traveling both in Switzerland and abroad. Wherever you are, the unexpected can always happen, so it is better if you are prepared.

How much does Swiss health insurance cost?

Typically, Swiss residents have to pay a monthly fee, which may vary between Swiss health insurance companies. The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) announced that the average health insurance premium for 2022 will cost CHF315.30 ($339) per month, which is the lowest insurance premium price in the last 14 years. 

What is covered by private health insurance?

Private health insurance covers different additional treatments such as:

• Dental treatment
• Specialist treatments
• Osteopathy 
• Private healthcare services
• Benefits during hospital stays (private room, free choice of doctor, etc.)

Health insurance reimbursements

Most Swiss health insurance companies will expect you to pay fees upfront and then claim reimbursements later. You will first need to submit a claim form through your insurer along with necessary invoices or receipts. Reimbursements typically take a few weeks to come through. Talk to your insurer for the details of the process and the waiting period.

Things you can do to reduce the cost of Swiss health insurance

There are a few tips to pay a lower health insurance monthly premium, such as:

• Choosing a plan with a restricted choice of doctor or health maintenance organization (HMO).
• Taking out a Telmed policy, which means you have to call a telephone service and get referred to a hospital or doctor.
• Increasing your excess above CHF 300 per year;
• Paying all of the amounts fees upfront, so that you can get a discount of around 2 percent.

Health Insurance in Switzerland Must-Knows

There is a list of things you ought to know about health insurance in Switzerland . Here are some of them. 

Insurance is compulsory

Understanding the whole health insurance system in Switzerland is not necessary but what is crucial is to know that health insurance coverage is mandatory for any person residing in Switzerland for more than three months. If you work in Switzerland even for under three months, this applies to you too.  

Yes, even if you are from an EU country

Health insurance has to be taken no matter what your nationality is; it is also compulsory if you are from an EU or EFTA state but work in Switzerland without residing here. As for people who live in a neighboring country and come to Switzerland to work (cross-border commuters), they can choose whether to take out health insurance in their own country or Switzerland.

Student Health Insurance in Switzerland

Scorestudies includes higher benefits than the Swiss compulsory health insurance, it is very often on a full refund basis and no co- payment of 10% is required. In case of emergency, hospitalisation or prescribed medication, you are fully reimbursed by Allianz Care.

It’s governed by the law

This basic universal coverage of health insurance is governed by a federal law called LAMal and comprises the same benefits for all insurers, but the monthly premiums vary a lot according to insurance model and age. This law aims to ensure high-quality health care for everyone, subsidize those who cannot afford it, and control costs. The basic insurance covers medical treatment in the event of illness and accident, and you are free to choose your own insurance company.

Basic insurance does not cover all medical expenses

You are charged 10% of the costs. This can rise to 20% at the pharmacy if you choose a branded drug when a cheaper generic alternative is available. Above a certain level of annual expenses (CHF 7,000 for adults and CHF 3,500 for children), the 10% contribution does not apply. Therefore, afterward, you do not have to pay at all.

However, there are some exceptions as to who is not required to pay and for treatments that are not covered.

How Can Foreigners and Students Qualify For Health Insurance?

As we already mentioned, health insurance in Switzerland is compulsory. So, in short, if you live in Switzerland for more than three months or if you work there, you qualify for basic health insurance. This applies to foreigners if they are issued with a residence permit for three months or more. The insurance obligation applies to students too. If you are from a non-EU country and don’t have a European Health Insurance Card, you are eligible to take out Swiss insurance. However, students holding a European Health Insurance Card may be exempt from compulsory health insurance in Switzerland.

What happens if I am not covered by health insurance in Switzerland?

If you fail to purchase health insurance in Switzerland by the 90-days deadline, your local authority will sign you up for a plan, but you will probably have to pay higher premiums. Plus, anyone in the country who does not have insurance (except those who are exempted) cannot access Swiss healthcare services other than emergency treatment which will be charged to you. Plus, the insurance company is authorized to charge not only regular premiums but also a penalty fee for the delayed entry. So, we would definitely not recommend that. 

Can I use my EHIC in Switzerland?

If you are an EU citizen with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and do not earn an income in Switzerland, you can be exempted from compulsory health insurance in Switzerland. Remember to apply for exemption within three months of entering the country.

If you are a non-EU/EFTA citizen with an EHIC, you may also apply for an exemption. However, we can’t guarantee the exemption will be granted.

How much does a visit to the doctor in Switzerland cost?

A 15-minute consultation with a doctor in Switzerland costs around CHF 130. But longer consultation costs can start from CHF 300 for on-site treatment. And although basic health insurance covers medical and nursing care and outpatient follow-up, you will have to pay CHF 15 a day towards these costs.

Special Packages for International Students

Some companies offer special packages for foreign students. They are designed for non-EU students but can also be purchased by EU students.

For students from EU countries

Students holding a European Health insurance Card (EHIC) or with private insurance from an EU country may be exempt from compulsory health insurance in Switzerland. As for students who are working beside their studies, this exemption is not possible since it is only approved if you do not have any income.

For students from non-EU countries

If you are from a non-EU country and do not hold a European Health Insurance Card, you will have to take out Swiss insurance. Here are the available options:

• Scorestudies

Scorestudies offers student insurance packages for international students at affordable rates. Scorestudies includes higher benefits than the Swiss compulsory health insurance, it is very often on a full refund basis, and no co-payment of 10% is required. In case of emergency, hospitalization, or prescribed medication, you are fully reimbursed by Allianz Care.

• Academic Care

Academic Care by Groupe Mutuel is a student insurance package for international students at very cheap rates. The cheapest is the monthly premium one for students under 26 which is CHF 90 (with an annual deductible of CHF 500), while for those over 26, it’s CHF 125 (with an annual deductible of CHF 500).

With “studentplan,” Swisscare also offers a student insurance package for foreign students at cheap rates. Monthly premiums (Standard plan) for students up to 31 is CHF 65 (with an annual deductible of CHF 1000), while for students over 32, it’s CHF 85 (with an annual deductible of CHF 1000).

• Student Care

Student Care offered by SWICA is also an affordable student insurance package for non-Swiss students. Monthly premiums for students under 25 are CHF 91.70 (with an annual deductible of CHF 500), while there are slightly higher prices for students over 25.

Non-EU/EFTA students with private insurance from their home country

Citizens of non-EU/EFTA countries with private insurance from their home country could also apply for an exemption, but it is rare that such exemption requests are approved.

Things You Can Do to Reduce the Cost of Swiss Health Insurance

• Pay in advance. Most companies offer a discount of typically 2% if you pay the full year upfront instead of every month.
• Increase the deductible (the amount you’ll need to pay before insurance payments kick in). You can choose deductibles of CHF 300 and CHF 2,500 on an adult policy. If you’re sure you won’t visit your doctor that month or year, you might want to risk paying a deductible in return for a lower premium. On the other hand, if you are sure you WILL need treatment, you should pay a higher premium instead.
• Choose a lower-cost model. There is a range of models which vary by providers who can offer different discounts you should be on the search for.

Swiss health insurance might be expensive, but its quality makes it worth every Franc.

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University of Central Florida

Founded as a public institution in 1785, UGA boasts an illustrious history in higher education. Today, Georgia's flagship university offers online programs to make a UGA degree more accessible. The online courses limit class sizes and use the same high academic standards as on-campus classes. UGA offers an online bachelor's degree in special education and multiple online graduate programs in education. Degree-seekers can also earn master's degrees in community nutrition, international biomedical regulatory sciences, emerging media, and avian health and medicine. Other available online master's programs include business, technology, and social work.

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10% your international health insurance for life!

Scorestudies includes higher benefits than the Swiss compulsory health insurance, it is very often on a full refund basis and no co-​payment of 10% is required. In case of emergency, hospitalisation or prescribed medication, you are fully reimbursed by Allianz Care.

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How to choose your GP in Switzerland

If you've just landed in Switzerland, you might need a bit of time getting your head around the very important topic of health insurance. You have some time (3 months after your arrival - to be more precise), so no stress there. Yet. Once you figure this out, or rather, as you figure this out, you'll see that you have a choice between various insurance models, namely with a GP (General Practitioner or Family Doctor) or without. 

The easiest and most cost effective way is to go for the GP model. Which brings us to this article's main question: how to go about choosing your GP?

As a foreigner in Switzerland you will need a GP who probably speaks English, you'll need to know how good they are and there are also some other issues you might not have considered. 

Our healthcare partner, Hirslanden, the largest private hospital group in Switzerland is happy to help you find an English speaking GP in your area. 

Schedule appointments and get multi-language support from Hirslanden's top-rated medical specialists.

How to choose your GP in Switzerland, basic need-to-knows

The best and simplest way to go about choosing your GP is to request a list of approved doctors from your health insurer. Don't be afraid to ask your neighbours for opinions or recommendations. 

As a rule, try to find a GP that's close to your home . 

Make sure the opening hours are quite generous (but be aware that, based on the immutable Murphy's law, medical emergencies happen on weekends and when your GP's practice is closed). 

Be prepared to be turned down - some GPs might not have capacity to accept new patients . 

Know that in case you need to see a specialist, the GP model makes it mandatory for you to visit your GP first . Your GP will then recommend a specialised physician. 

Expect to pay around CHF 100 for a GP consult - a detailed invoice will be submitted to your health insurer. (Extremely detailed in fact, as the first few minutes are billed differently versus subsequent minutes). 

The fee for a GP consult is usually considered as part of your contribution/ franchise , so expect to pay it yourself. 

In case you need medication, know that your GP can also provide it and offer it on the spot (usually, but not always, depending on the stock they have available). They will invoice you later, it is not a gift. But it saves you a pharmacy trip and it will cost the same as you would pay in the pharmacy, so don't hesitate to take it. 

Find out more about the Hirslanden Private Hospital Group

With 17 top-class hospitals throughout Switzerland, Hirslanden is the largest private hospital group in Switzerland  and provides some of the most impressive private healthcare in the world. All the hospitals are located in peaceful, green surroundings, some with therapeutic views of lakes and mountains, others with stunning architecture.

Quite simply, Hirslanden is the best hospital group in Switzerland and a true leader in the service it provides.

Each of the 17 Hirslanden hospitals has the latest technology, ultra-modern facilities and exceptionally well-trained staff who provide a high-quality service that’s both personal and outstanding. Hirslanden doctors are medical professionals with years of experience and their skills cover a wide range of specialist disciplines. 

Driven by patient satisfaction

Patient satisfaction lies at the heart of the Hirslanden ethic. The overall satisfaction rate in December 2020 was an impressive 92.1% with 93% of patients more than happy to recommend Hirslanden to others. You can read some past patient views  here

Hirslanden International: your point of contact if you're an international resident in Switzerland or have traveled to Switzerland from abroad

Hirslanden International focuses exclusively on international patients. Once you have contacted their team you will generally stay with the person who was your first port-of-call for all future enquiries. A dedicated contact ensures a smooth continuity of care from initial enquiry to the completion of your treatment. From answering any queries you might have about your treatment through to organising transport and hotels they can help you with almost anything during your entire stay.

A member of the team will be able to provide you with free advice on the full range of services Hirslanden offers. They can help you select the appropriate doctor, and then schedule an online consultation. If you require a quote, all you need to do is send any medical reports you have (if available) with a description of your current symptoms. You'll then receive a personalised quote based on an assessment done by one of the Hirslanden specialists. Your treatment costs can be covered by insurance, by a company, organisation or embassy or by yourself.

Nothing is more important than keeping you in good health, which is why high-quality medical treatment is a wise investment in you and your future.

Join Hirslanden’s discerning patient base and let their highly trained staff take the stress of your medical procedure away by providing you with a service that is caring, professional, high-class and hassle-free.

Do you have more questions related to healthcare in Switzerland?

Schedule appointments and get multi-language support from Hirslanden's top-rated medical specialists. 

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Medical care

Medical care in Switzerland is among the best in the world. You can consult any attending doctor in Switzerland. For emergencies, you may go to the nearest hospital or emergency practice, or in urgent cases, call the ambulance (144). Each hospital has an emergency department. Make sure that you are adequately insured. Depending on your situation, a travel additional insurance may be worth considering. You should have your insurance card with you each time you visit a doctor or purchase medicines. Depending on the insurance, you will be refunded part of the cost. The emergency number for the ambulance is: 144

Emergency numbers

Police: 117 Fire-service: 118 Ambulance: 144 Tox-Zentrum: 145 European Emergeny no: 112  

Pharmacies in Switzerland are marked with the green pharmacy sign. They are generally open from 8:00-18:30 (Monday to Friday) and 8:00-16:00/17:00 (Saturday).  Some pharmacies (often in train stations and airports) are open longer and on...

Lost and Found

If you lose something during your stay in Switzerland, please contact the nearest lost property office.   Lost property offices are usually run by the local municipality. In addition, public transport services have their own lost property...

In the case of toothache or a dental emergency, please contact the nearest dentist. Unless you have the necessary insurance, you will usually have to bear the costs yourself. For emergencies outside of opening times, please contact an emergency...

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Travelling is special and nothing should spoil the enjoyment it brings. That’s why we want to ensure that you and your belongings are kept safe on your trip. And if any problems do arise, you will find on www.safertravel.ch all the...

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Swiss Health Insurance: Covered Costs

What is covered by your compulsory Swiss health insurance? Find out exactly what your basic mandatory Swiss health insurance policy covers in this guide.

Every person residing in Switzerland is required to take out a basic compulsory health insurance policy. But many residents do not understand what they are actually getting in exchange for the high insurance premiums. What treatments are covered? Does basic health insurance cover you outside of Switzerland? Are medicines you buy at pharmacies covered or do you pay for these out of your own pocket? Are accidents covered?

Here is a list of the costs covered by compulsory Swiss health insurance:

1. Accidents

Mandatory health insurance covers the treatment of injuries which result from accidents as well as illnesses. However, if you work and receive accident insurance from your Swiss employer, you can put the accident coverage of your mandatory health insurance on hold. For more information, refer to the guide to accident insurance in Switzerland .

2. Alternative treatments

Swiss mandatory health insurance covers these alternative treatments: anthroposophical medicine; chiropractic; homeopathy; neural therapy; traditional Chinese medicine (including acupuncture). For more on this topic, read the guide to Swiss health insurance coverage for alternative medicine .

3. Ambulance transportation

Ambulance transportation – both within Switzerland and abroad – is partially covered by compulsory health insurance. Ambulance transportation: 50 percent up to a maximum sum insured of 500 francs per year, when you are incapable of traveling to the hospital using other forms of transportation. Emergency medical evacuations (rescue): 50 percent of costs, up to a maximum sum insured of 5000 francs per year. You can learn how else you may be covered in the guide to Swiss insurance for search and rescue, ambulances, and repatriation .

4. Approved medicines

Your Swiss obligatory health insurance policy covers any medicine prescribed by a doctor as long as it is listed in the List of Pharmaceutical Specialties maintained by the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH). If you prefer a brand-name medicine when significantly cheaper generic alternatives are available, you may have to cover 20 percent yourself as a copayment (instead of the standard 10 percent ). For more information, see the guide to covered medicines .

5. Dental repair

Compulsory health insurance covers dental repair when the condition is caused by illness or by medical treatment. Treatment of serious infections of the jaw and dental system is also covered. The cost of repairing dental damage caused by accidents is covered when accident coverage is active (otherwise your employer’s accident insurance covers this). This basic coverage can be extended with supplementary dental insurance. Read the guide to Swiss dental insurance for more information.

Visits to a doctor for the purpose of diagnosing or treating an illness are covered by your basic policy. Purely preventative medical check-ups are not covered, with the exception of allowances for gynecological and pediatric check-ups, mammograms, and vaccinations (more about these exceptions further down).

Until children turn 18, compulsory health insurance covers up to 180 francs of the cost of prescription glasses and contact lenses every year. Visits to eye doctors are covered. Laser correction is not normally covered, but exceptions may be made for special cases. Medically required glasses and contact lenses are covered up to 630 francs per eye. You can find more information in the guide to health insurance coverage for glasses and contact lenses .

8. Gynecological check-ups

Your basic health insurance covers one preventative gynecological check-up every 3 years. If treatment is required, it is covered by your insurance just like any other specialized treatment. Even if you have a managed care policy, you can visit gynecologists without having to consult with your managed care provider first.

9. Hospitals in Switzerland

Treatment in the general wards of hospitals listed in your canton’s approved hospital list are fully covered by your basic, compulsory health insurance policy. Hospital stays in other cantons are fully covered in the case of medical emergencies or if the hospitals in your canton of residence do not have the facilities required for the treatment you need. Aside from the exceptions above, voluntary hospital treatments in other cantons are only covered up to the cost of identical treatment in your canton of residence. If treatment is more expensive, you pay the difference yourself. You can insure possible differences using supplemental hospital insurance .

10. Maternity

Your compulsory Swiss health insurance covers up to seven prenatal examinations, one postnatal examination, the delivery and three breast-feeding consultation sessions. Maternity-related hospital stays in your canton of residence are covered by the general ward insurance included in your basic policy. Your baby is covered by your policy for up to three months from the date of birth, within which time you must take out a separate compulsory health insurance policy for them.

11. Medical treatment outside of Switzerland

Basic mandatory health insurance covers medical emergencies outside of Switzerland , up to a limit of twice what the insurance would pay for the same treatment in your canton of residence. Non-emergency medical treatments outside of Switzerland are generally not covered, but there are exceptions. These are explained in the guide to health insurance coverage for treatments outside of Switzerland .

12. Outpatient coverage

Temporary outpatient care at home which is prescribed by a hospital in connection with hospital stays is covered, up to a limit of 14 days per prescription. Compulsory Swiss health insurance pays out benefits for long-term care (spitex) prescribed by a doctor, up to these limits: 52.60 francs per hour for basic care; 63 francs per hour for medical examinations and treatment; 76.90 francs per hour for consultation. A copayment is required and this varies based on where in Switzerland you live, but it is never more than 15.35 francs per day.

13. Pediatric check-ups

Children living in Switzerland are entitled to eight routine medical examinations over the course of their childhood – even when there is no suspicion of illness. These check-ups are covered by compulsory Swiss health insurance.

14. Preventative mammography

Women who are at high risk of breast cancer are entitled to one covered mammogram every year. If you are a woman aged 50 years or older, you are entitled to one covered mammogram every 2 years with no deductible if your canton operates a screening mammography program. Cantons which operate eligible screening programs include Basel-Stadt, Bern, Fribourg, Geneva, Grisons, Jura, Neuchâtel, Solothurn, St. Gallen, Thurgau, Ticino, Valais and Vaud.

15. Psychiatric treatment

Treatment by qualified psychiatrists is covered. Visits to psychologists are covered when they are prescribed by medical doctors.

16. Spa treatments

A benefit of up to 10 francs per day for a maximum of 21 days per year applies to doctor-prescribed spa treatments. Spas must be recognized by the FOPH in order for this coverage to apply.

17. Specialists

Treatment by conventional medical specialists is covered by your basic policy. The following specialized treatments are also covered, if they are prescribed by a doctor and performed by an accredited medical specialist: ergotherapy; consultation for diabetics; dietary coaching for certain health conditions; physiotherapy; speech therapy.

18. Vaccinations

A number of standard vaccinations are covered by your basic policy. These include all of the inoculations which are typically recommended for children and several of those recommended for travelers and seniors. You can find out more in the guide to Swiss health insurance cover for vaccinations .

More on this topic: Compare Swiss mandatory health insurance offers now Which costs can be covered with supplemental health insurance? Compare Swiss supplemental health insurance now Compare Swiss supplementary hospital insurance now Deductibles for Swiss mandatory health insurance explained Managed care models for compulsory health insurance explained How to change your Swiss mandatory health insurance

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Being a Doctor in Switzerland

Working in Switzerland is the dream of many doctors around the world so what makes Switzerland so attractive to doctors?

Swiss Health System

First of all, let’s start with the Swiss health system, unlike many countries, Switzerland does not have a system like state health insurance. Everyone living in Switzerland, which has a population of approximately 8 million, takes out compulsory private health insurance. This system is very advantageous in terms of the income earned by the doctors.

To give a few examples, in the neighboring country Germany, 93 percent of the population prefers state insurance. The bill that doctors can charge for an average examination is between 32-110 Euros. It pays once. In other words, if a sick child goes to the doctor with the same complaint many times, the doctor can only receive payment from the state once. This is even vital for a person who goes for examination for months with a persistent stomach ache.

On the other hand, doctors in Switzerland charge between 120 – 300 Francs for a standard procedure. Since all of their patients have private health insurance, an invoice is issued every time in case of recurrent complaints or follow-up examinations. The reason for the higher salaries of doctors in Switzerland compared to Germany is due to this health system.

Doctor’s Salaries in Switzerland

The average income in Zurich for pediatrics, a relatively underpaid branch, is CHF 240,000, calculated on gross salary and bonuses, ranging between CHF 146,000 – 334,700.

If we make an assessment for Radiology, one of the branches with higher income level, the average income is CHF 326,785, ranging between CHF 111,800 and CHF 500,000.

For comparison, the starting salary of a specialist doctor in each branch in Germany is in kind and corresponds to an average gross of 74,400 €. This amount is between € 2,300 – € 4000 per month for the net salary.

Another important issue is that the tax rates in Switzerland are much lower than in Germany.

One of the top career ladders to be reached in Germany, the head doctor’s salary is around € 150,000, this gross salary is almost equivalent to the salary of a new specialist even in the least earning branches in Switzerland. When gross and net salary are compared at the same income level, the head physician with a gross annual salary of 150,000 € in Germany earns 8,000 € net per month, while the specialist doctor receiving 150,000 CHF in Switzerland earns a net income of 10,000 CHF per month.

Living Conditions in Switzerland

Is the income gap between medicine in Switzerland and medicine in Germany balancing when the cost of living between the two countries is taken into account? No way!

Contrary to popular belief, your expenses in Switzerland are not much higher than in Germany.

Education Costs in Switzerland

Unlike Germany, the Swiss education system, which starts at the age of 4 and is shown as the best education system in the world, is free for families with children, on the contrary, in Germany, kindergarten is offered from the age of 1 with a monthly cost of 500-1000 €. Considering the net specialist doctor income, this is close to 25% of your monthly income for Germany.

 Market Prices in Switzerland

When we look at the difference in restaurant and grocery prices between Switzerland and Germany, the prices in Switzerland are;

• 100% higher in basic grocery
• 80% higher at restaurants

Many Swiss residents do shopping from supermarkets on the border of Germany and France, so that it is possible to eliminate the most basic item of living costs.

Rental Prices in Switzerland

We can say that the rent payments in Zurich are 40% higher on average than in Germany.

The expensiveness of the rent is actually no problem for a specialist who can easily buy his own house, because buying your own house in Switzerland is much easier than buying your own in Germany.

Again, before the comparison we made on behalf of two specialist doctors, it would be useful to briefly explain the dual mortgage structure in the housing loan system in Switzerland.

You never have to pay the principal of 60% of the housing loan you will receive in Switzerland. This system, also known as Perpetual Interest, is a very clear indicator of how stable the economic and political structure of Switzerland is.

To sum up, if we evaluate the living expenses with a calculation method where you pay rent, you need to earn CHF 7,749 in Zurich for the standard of living you can achieve with a net 4,800€ in Munich (Berlin 4,100€, Stuttgart 4,100€). It is very possible to earn much more than CHF 7,749 for any specialist doctor.

The Expatrist

How Much Does Medical Treatment Cost in Germany?

Healthcare is free in Germany, but only if you have health insurance accepted in the country. If you don’t have suitable coverage, be prepared to pay medical bills from your pocket. Do you need to see a doctor while visiting Germany? What is the medical treatment cost in Germany?

You must compensate for his time, analyses, and medical prescriptions by visiting a doctor. In Germany, the official price list – GOÄ- strictly regulated prices. It states the maximum and minimum rates for a particular treatment. Some typical costs are:

• Consultation: 30 – 60 EUR
• Treatment: 100 EUR
• Analysis and tests: 20 – 100 EUR
• Medicine prescription: 20 – 30 EUR

German health care is one of the best in the world. In Germany, everyone has health insurance, which covers all patient medical expenses. If you aren’t living in Germany, you often must reimburse these costs yourself.

Read this article to learn all the major costs you can expect when visiting a doctor in Germany.

If you are particularly looking for the cost of dental care in Germany , read this post .

How much will you pay to visit a doctor in Germany?

Are you planning to visit a doctor in Germany? Whether it’s a regular cold, dental cleaning, or some serious treatment, it’s good to know how much you will pay in the end.

Generally, insurance companies pay for all medical treatments of patients in Germany. But if you don’t have valid insurance for Germany, be ready to pay bills on your own. Taking out one of the cheapest health insurance for Germany will save you a significant amount of money.

Treatments in hospitals and private practices in Germany are never free. Someone will always have to pay, either the health insurance company or the patient.

Since foreigners in Germany often aren’t covered by comprehensive health insurance, they usually have to pay for medical expenses. However, if you have German health insurance, the company pays for many services in full.

A more detailed answer on how high the medical bill is will depend on which treatment you need, how acute the case is, and whether you need hospitalization in the hospital.

First of all, having a health insurance plan in Germany, either private or public, is mandatory by law. There are penalties for not having insurance or adequate coverage if you live in Germany.

Tourists will usually be required to have travel health insurance when applying for their German visa.

Visiting a doctor in Germany

So you decided to visit a doctor in Germany; whether symptoms you have, it’s always better to head to the General Practitioner (Hausarzt). They can diagnose and treat pretty much everything. In case of uncertainty, he will send you to a specialist.

With simple issues and general sickness, you should head to the private doctor’s practice (praxis), not the hospital. Practices are private mini-clinics managed by self-employed doctors.

The rates for medical services are regulated by law, so a doctor can’t charge a patient more or less than in the official price list. Generally, consultation by specialists is usually more expensive than by general doctors.

You should calculate about 30 – 60 EUR for a simple consultation when visiting a doctor in Germany without health insurance. Expect further costs for:

• Medication prescriptions
• Physician letters
• Issuance of certificates (for work, school)

To learn about the cost of various dental treatments, read this article .

Cost of Dental Care in Germany: Guide 2023

Don’t forget that you will need to buy medicine at your own expense in addition to the treatment costs. German doctors must prescribe the most inexpensive medicaments instead of overpriced brands.

Thanks to the German honest, reliable, and straightforward nature, they also don’t prescribe unnecessary tests, drugs, or medical manipulations.

Germany doesn’t raise foreigners’ treatment fees. However, German medical costs can mount up quickly. The fees listed are for one normal doctor appointment. Each extra service costs more.

Prepare to pay for special treatment, inpatient care, or surgery. Average inpatient cost is 4,000 EUR; intensive care costs 1,400 EUR per day and 11,000 EUR on average.

That’s why you always need health insurance when coming to Germany, whether it’s a short visit as a tourist, an exchange semester, or work. Everyone can get affordable coverage that will pay for all treatments they need.

Check out Feather and Ottonova . They provide affordable insurance plans for visitors in Germany.

Expat insurance is one of them, made particularly for someone short-term in Germany. Public health insurance is best if you plan to stay for a long time and earn a small salary.

Higher earners and freelancers should opt for private insurance. Students can choose between public and private insurance.

If you are coming from abroad to Germany to undergo medical treatment or surgery, you can contact the hospital/clinic or agency for detailed pricing information.

In fact, medical tourists have an immense significance for the German economy: the country receives 1.2 billion EUR each year.

Overall, the price of a single diagnostic or treatment procedure in Germany is higher than in most developing countries.

If you are looking for treatment or surgery on a budget and still high quality, check private clinics in Thailand, Malaysia, India, or UAE.

Are you visiting a dentist in Germany ? Learn about dental care in Germany and whether your insurance will cover it.

Is Dental Care Free in Germany?

How does German healthcare work?

The government supports German health care. Most treatments, surgeries, and medicaments are free of charge for the patients if they have appropriate insurance and pay monthly contributions.

The health care fund is one of the biggest in Germany (11.6% of GDP), due to the increased need, especially in long-term care. The main reason for this is the rapidly aging German population.

The government regulates all treatment costs and general pricing in medicine, namely the Federal Ministry of Health and the Federal Medical Association.

Cost of health insurance in Germany

The cost of health insurance coverage can range from 60 EUR to 1,500 EUR per month, depending on your circumstances and the insurance company. Let’s take a look at the costs in more detail.

Healthcare insurance is mandatory by law in Germany, so you must calculate how much it will cost you when you are moving abroad .

Most people, even international students, could register for private insurance , and many are eligible for a public insurance plan.

Read more about healthcare costs in Germany here .

Is Healthcare Free in Germany?

Public insurance in Germany

Statutory or public insurance is the most common in Germany. Around 80% of the German population has statutory insurance, which public insurance companies provide. Read more about public insurance in Germany.

There are 105 public health insurance providers in Germany.

Public health insurance starts from 105 EUR and usually won’t cost you more than 600 EUR monthly. The standard way of calculation is 7.3% of your gross monthly salary. You can choose private health insurance, which isn’t based on income.

All people in Germany pay a different amount for statutory (public) health insurance:

• Employees – 14.6% of the gross monthly income, 7.3% paid by the employer, and another half by the worker.
• Families of the employees – free
• Students – around 105 EUR per month
• Pensioners – between 109,50 EUR and 126 EUR per month
• Freelancers and self-employed – 14,6% of gross monthly income

Overall, employees with average salaries tend to pay around 400 EUR per month.

If you don’t fit in these categories, you can sign up for private health insurance at 72 EUR per month.

Cheapest Private and Public Health Insurance in Germany

Private insurance in Germany

Private patients are charged for treatments according to the official price list GOÄ (read above) in the same way as patients with public health insurance.

The cost of private health insurance isn’t regulated in the same way as that of public healthcare and can, therefore, vary hugely in price.

Younger people with good health and no chronic illness will pay significantly less than older patients with some diseases.

It’s logical; private insurance will need to compensate more often and larger amounts of money to the older person.

Thus, private health insurance is the best option for adults in good health, with higher income and no kids. Additionally, high-income young people will undoubtedly save money by choosing private over public.

A young, healthy person can pay as little as 75 EUR monthly for private insurance coverage. Public insurance will deduct according to the salary, so the more you earn, the more you pay.

Some private plans can also be cheaper for international students than public insurance. They can be affordable at 50 EUR, while public insurance starts at 105 EUR. The cheapest private coverage is provided for Feather – only 72 EUR per month.

In my first year in Austria, I paid as little as 35 EUR for my private insurance . The health care system in both countries is very similar.

Some private plans might not cover everything, so you need to pay attention when signing a contract, but I haven’t spent any euros this year from my pocket.

As you can see,   the cost of healthcare insurance in Germany ranges widely depending on whether you have private or public coverage.

Read this article dedicated to the cost of private insurance in Germany.

Private Health Insurance in Germany Costs: How Much To Expect?

If you want to save money on health care, choose the cheapest insurance provider . You will find them in this article.

In the end, public and private health insurance will cover almost 100% of the expenses you encounter when using medical services in Germany. You usually won’t pay any additional money except your monthly coverage rate.

Learn about dental care in Germany.

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Guide on how to change car insurance in germany, work remotely in germany: how to do it successfully, cheapest health insurance in germany for students, what are the requirements for a german freelance visa, nursing jobs for foreign nurses in germany, requirements for german permanent residence permit in 2023, leave a reply.

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Switzerland visitor needs a doctor, what is the verage cost? - Switzerland Forum

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Switzerland visitor needs a doctor, what is the verage cost?

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I will visit Geneve and luzern with my family this month. Just wondering if one of us would get sick and needs a doctor for treatment, how much in average that will cost?

I am really asking about doctor treatment for things like stomachache or a fever. The cost of emergency hospital admitting is 'kind of' covered by my USA insurance.

I really appreciate the feedback.

If you have a medical emergency I believe the US Embassy in Bern has a list of doctors all over the country who speak English well. And if it is a serious emergency, the Consular services there will help you.

I got sick with a bronchitis some years ago as a ski tourist and went to a doc in Silvaplana (twice). Total cost incl. tests was 117 Sfr.

For ah dallas it is another question! US people should check with their home insurer to see if they have some holiday coverage while they are abroad or they will have to pay for it themselves while here.

In my expereince and the experience of friends, most insurance that one has through their employer etc. for their health care here in the US that also covers you when you are traveling outside the US requires that you pay the bill and they reimburse you when you return. Many Americans make the mistake of thinking that European countries and the UK have free health systems so they can just go to a doctor or hospital while they are visiting without cost. Bad mistake!

There are travel insurance policies but I haven't found one that pays before you return and submit your bills for things like office visits.

Bottom line - docs in Europe generally do not charge anything like they charge here and neither do hospitals. It's not a huge difficulty for most folks and, if it is, I think most would take a credit card number to charge later if necessary and give you a bill for your insurance company. It just isn't as money oriented as it is here in the U.S.

I talked to my work insurance and also got quote for travel insurance. It ended up that my work insurance will cover hospital admittance and emergency treatment but I pay about 200 euro copay. The cheapest quote for a reliable travel insurance was about 300 euro for our family of four covering the trip duration of 18 days.

I have to pay for myself while I am abroad for either the work insurance or the additional travel insurance and then submit the bill when I return.

Based on what I learned from you all, it seems it is better to count on the home insurance for a big thing but for a minor thing I just pay for it if it costs less than my work insurance copay.

Thanks again.

Baloney, My son has an ear infection and for two visits to the doctor he is being charged $500.

the cost is about 100 to 150 CHF a visit, depending on canton and if any test are made at the doctor's praxis plus any otehr tests etc of course.

BUT, you might have a problem to get a doctor's appointment on short notice.

In my experience, most doctors have huge waiting lists (meaning, the nearest appt you get can be after a couple of weeks if you are lucky) quite a few do not accept any new patients.

If it is an emergency, even a stomach ache, you will have to either go to the hospital or a walk-in clinic.

So keep that in mind for your preparations.

We generally pay around USD300 for a complete annual checkup including lab tests (and 90% is covered by our Swiss insurance) and about 100frs ($90) for a doctor's in office consultation.

You cannot compare New York City charges and Swiss charges!

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How Much Does a Doctor Visit Cost With and Without Insurance?

Without insurance, medical care can get pricy fast. Where you live, what doctor you’re going to, and what tests you need will all figure into your doctor’s visit bill. In this article, we’ll break down those costs and give you some tips for saving money.

What Goes into the Cost of a Doctor’s Visit?

Geography is one of the biggest factors in the price of a doctor’s visit. Most medical facilities pass some of their overhead expenses onto their patients. If you live somewhere with a higher cost of living, like California or New York City, you’ll likely pay more for doctors’ visits. The practice has to pay more for utilities and rent, and those costs show up in your bill. For example, Mayo Clinic’s Patient Estimates tool quotes $846 for a 60-minute office visit in Jacksonville, Florida, but $605 for the same visit in Wisconsin.

Like the cost of living, supplies and equipment will also end up on your tab. Say you need a strep test, blood draw, or Pap smear. The supplies needed for the test plus the cost of the lab fees will all figure into the price.

Bills for the same exams and procedures can also vary depending on what kind of facility you’re going to. Smaller practices and public health centers are often a lot cheaper than university or private hospital systems. This is due in part to their buildings being smaller and their overhead fees being lower.

Price of Out-of-Pocket Doctors’ Visits

The cost of a doctor’s office visit also depends on what kind of doctor and the procedure you need to have done. For example, an in-office general wellness checkup will be cheaper than a specialist procedure. If you have an emergency, an urgent care center will be much more affordable than the emergency room.

Primary Care Physician — Physical Exam

Physicals usually include blood pressure readings, cholesterol measurements, and vaccines. Prostate exams for men and Pap smears and breast exams for women are also often included. Pediatric physicals focus on the growth milestones for your child’s age. Doctors check height, weight, sleep patterns, diet, and the vaccines required by public schools.

The range for a yearly physical can be anywhere from $100 to $250 or more without insurance. A CVS Minutecare Clinic may charge just $59 for a sports physical, but not all organizations will accept this as proof of physical health.

Primary Care Physician — Procedures

On top of the base cost for physical exams, you may have extra charges for any specific tests or procedures you need. According to the Cardiometabolic Health blog, the most common procedures in primary care medicine include bloodwork, electrocardiograms, and vaccines/injections.

Bloodwork is one of the biggest cost wild cards. Certain tests can run you from as little as $10 to as much as $10,000 . Large national labs like Labcorp offer pricing on their website, so you know what to expect going in. For example, Labcorp’s General Health Blood Test , which includes a metabolic panel, complete blood count (CBC), and urinalysis, costs $78.

Electrocardiograms or EKGs check your heart health and can find cardi ac issues. This quick procedure involves monitoring your heartbeat through electrodes placed on your skin. While it’s a painless and accurate way to detect heart conditions, the costs can add up without insurance. Expect to pay as little as $410 or as much as $1700 for this procedure, depending on local prices.

Vaccines are often required before sending your kids to school. The CDC publishes a vaccination price list annually to give you an idea of what to expect. For example, they quote $19-$132 for DTaP, $21 for Hepatitis A, and $13-$65 for Hepatitis B. The COVID-19 vaccine, however, is free of cost, regardless of insurance status.

Urgent Care Visit

If you have an emergency but are stable, urgent care is much cheaper than the emergency room. According to Scripps , most urgent care centers and walk-in clinics can at least treat dehydration, cuts or simple fractures, fever, flu, strep, and UTIs. Note that if you have chest pain, a serious injury, seizures, a stroke, or pregnancy complications, you should go straight to the ER .

For a base exam at an urgent care facility, expect to pay between $100-$150 . That price will go up depending on what else you need. For example, Advanced Urgent Care in Denver quotes $80 for an X-Ray, $50 for an EKG, $135 for stitches, and $5 for a urinalysis. In comparison, expect to pay $1,000-$1,300 for the same procedures in the emergency room.

How to Lower Your Out-of-Pocket Medical Costs

Healthcare expenses may seem overwhelming without insurance. Luckily, there are many resources available to help you cover the costs.

Free & Low-Cost Immunization and Wellness Clinics

For standard vaccines and checkups, look for local free or low-cost clinics. Check out The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics’ search tool to find a location near you. Your city’s public health department should also offer free or low-cost vaccines and basic medical care services.

Certain large vaccine manufacturers also offer vaccine programs. For example, Merck’s patient assistance program offers 37 vaccines and medicines free to eligible patients. The program includes albuterol inhalers and vaccines for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, MMR, and HPV.

Cash Negotiations

Most health systems offer lower rates for patients paying cash. Some even have free programs for low-income families. For example, Heritage UPC in North Carolina has a yearly membership for low-cost preventative care. In Northern California, the Sutter Health medical system offers full coverage for patients earning 400% or less of the Federal Poverty Income Guideline .

As of January 1, 2021, all hospitals in the United States now have to follow the Hospital Price Transparency Rule . That means they have to list procedure prices clearly on their website. You can also call medical billing before your appointment to discuss cash pay options.

Federal Medical Payment Support

If all else fails, there are federal programs to help you cover the cost of medical bills.

Organizations like The United Way and United for Alice offer grants for ALICE (asset-limited, income-constrained, employed) patients. These are people living above the poverty level, making them ineligible for other government programs but below the basic cost-of-living threshold.

Medicaid is available for children, pregnant women, and adults under a certain income threshold. If your income is too high to qualify for Medicaid but you can’t afford private insurance for your children, you may be eligible for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to cover your children’s medical care.

Use Compare.com for the Best Doctors’ Visit Prices

Navigating bills for a doctor’s visit can feel overwhelming, but Compare.com is here to help. With our price comparison tool, you can search all clinic and doctors’ office prices in your area. Compare makes sure you’re prepared for the cost of your checkup long before you schedule your appointment.

Nick Versaw leads Compare.com's editorial department, where he and his team specialize in crafting helpful, easy-to-understand content about car insurance and other related topics. With nearly a decade of experience writing and editing insurance and personal finance articles, his work has helped readers discover substantial savings on necessary expenses, including insurance, transportation, health care, and more.

As an award-winning writer, Nick has seen his work published in countless renowned publications, such as the Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and U.S. News & World Report. He graduated with Latin honors from Virginia Commonwealth University, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Digital Journalism.

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