Premiums for the obligatory KVG/LaMal insurance have been rising practically each year, and will increase by 6 percent on average in 2027 — and even more so in certain cantons.
Even though these costs are high and climbing steadily, many people keep the same health insurance for years.
However, significant savings — to the tune of thousands of francs a year — could be made simply by switching carriers or plans, from the more expensive to the cheapest ones.
How can you save money on your health insurance?
During the month of October, you will receive a letter from your current carrier, notifying you of 2027 rates, and will have until November 30th to switch.
However, it is very important to use only the most reliable sources for your search of a cheaper alternative.
In Switzerland these three are trustworthy:
These are some of the cost-cutting options:
Switch to a less expensive plan
The standard (and most expensive) model for healthcare in Switzerland is that you can consult any doctor that you want, and you do not need a referral to see a specialist.
However, there are some types of health insurance plans that have cheaper premiums, but impose certain limits on your access to non-emergency medical care.
For instance:
Health maintenance organisation (HMO)
Under this model, policyholders are required to consult a particular HMO practice. Two disadvantages of this alternative is a limited choice of doctors and you also need a referral to see a specialist.
However, the benefit is a premium reduction of up to 25 percent compared to the conventional insurance.
Family doctor model
Your family doctor, a general practitioner be in charge of all your non-emergency medical treatment.
He or she will refer you to a specialist if necessary.
If you opt for this option, you could save 20 percent on your insurance.
The Telmed alternative
If you choose this option, you have to call a telephone service and get a referral to a doctor or hospital.
This does not apply to medical emergencies and there are other exceptions, such as eye exams and annual gynaecological check-ups.
Total savings could range between 15 and 20 percent.
You can also save money if you:
Increase your deductible
In Switzerland, the deductible (franchise) ranges from 300 to 2,500 francs - this represents the medical costs that you have to pay out of your own pocket before your health insurance kicks in.
As with most types of insurance, the lower your deductible, the higher your premiums, and vice-versa.
If you are young, healthy, and are not on any long-term medication, then you can save substantially with the highest franchise.
Keep in mind, however, that if you choose the highest deductible and end up having an accident or falling sick and needing medical care, you will have to pay a greater proportion of the costs.
Pay the premiums in one lump sum
Most insurance carriers will give you a 2-percent reduction if you pay your premiums upfront rather than on monthly basis.
If you can manage to come up with this large annual amount by January, you can save several up to several hundred francs.
How do you go about changing your policy?
If you want to cancel your current insurance policy and take up a cheaper one, you have to do so by a registered letter before November 30th.
However, don't cancel your policy before you have a new one in place.
That's because the current provider won't let you 'resign' unless you attach proof that you have taken out a new insurance policy.
Any outstanding monthly premiums must be paid before you can make the switch.
You can use these templates in German, French, or Italian to create the cancellation letter.
And don't even think about not buying insurance...
Even if you never, or very rarely, go to a doctor, you still need the basic health insurance — it's the law.
You must take up a policy within three months of your arrival in Switzerland.
Without it, you will not only be refused medical care other than for vital emergencies, but you will also not be able to register at your commune of residence, rent an apartment, get employment, and be denied many other services as well.
Sooner or later (probably sooner, given the Swiss organisational skills), your lack of insurance will be discovered.
If you don’t provide proof of being insured after the three-month period is over, the next step depends on your canton of residence.
Some will ‘play nice’ and send you a reminder by a registered letter. Others won’t.
In both cases, the outcome is the same: authorities will purchase a policy for you and send you the bill. The disadvantage of this ‘forced’ policy is that you will forego the choice of cheaper companies and plans.
Comments