Medical Care in Switzerland
Medical emergencies require immediate attention, so better be informed on how you can access instant medical care in a foreign country. Should you get ill in Switzerland, worry not, for their hotlines are very much available 24 hours in a day. The following are the numbers you may want to take note of:
Condition |
Organization |
Contact Number |
Medical emergency and rescue services |
Local Service Providers |
144 |
Urgent police help |
Local Service Providers |
117 |
Fire Service |
Local Service Providers |
118 |
Medical care in Switzerland ranks among the top 5 in the world. It is considered one of the most sophisticated and reliable health services in all of Europe. This quality of healthcare extends both to residents and nonresidents in the country. That being said, even tourists are required to secure healthcare insurance when visiting Switzerland. Unlike its neighboring countries, although the country’s healthcare system is universal, it is not government funded. Most medical services are paid for by an individual by a Swiss healthcare provider.
Before landing in Switzerland, make sure that you ask your healthcare provider from your home country if their coverage can extend to Switzerland. Although some international healthcare policies may cover overseas costs, not all are recognized in the country. Should your coverage be limited to Switzerland, check out local healthcare insurance providers in Switzerland such as Swica and the Foyer Group.
Also, it's generally a good advice and often a much cheaper option to check what insurance packages are available in your own country and what coverage they offer in Switzerland.