Health Insurance Premiums
What You Need to Know About Health Insurance Premiums in Switzerland
Each fall, health insurers in Switzerland set the premiums for the following year. Comparing health insurance premiums can be beneficial for policyholders since, although premiums in basic insurance vary, the services remain constant. Premium amounts can be reduced by choosing an alternative insurance model or a higher deductible.
How is the Premium in Basic Insurance Composed?
The premium amount for mandatory health care insurance varies depending on the canton of residence, income, and age of the insured. Each health insurance company sets its own premiums, which can change annually. For example, on average, premiums increased by 1.2 percent to 315 Swiss Francs. Changes vary by canton and can range from a reduction of 1.5 percent to an increase of 3.6 percent.
Premium Discount for Alternative Insurance Models
Selecting an alternative insurance model can reduce premiums because these models limit the choice of doctors to certain partners. This can result in savings of up to 20 percent. Popular models include the family doctor model, the HMO model, and various Telmed models. Additionally, there is a bonus model that rewards policyholders for low utilization of medical services.
The Most Popular Models:
- The Family Doctor Model: In case of illness, you first consult your family doctor.
- The Group Practice Model (HMO): In case of illness, you first visit a doctor in a group practice (HMO).
- The Telmed Model: Before every doctor's visit, you contact a telephone advice service.
Another interesting model is the bonus model, which rewards policyholders for low utilization of medical services. In this system, premiums decrease if you claim no services over a certain period. However, you start with a premium that is ten percent higher, and flexibility in choosing the deductible is limited.
Saving Through a Higher Franchise
Another way to reduce premiums is to increase the deductible. The standard annual deductible is 300 Swiss Francs, but it can be raised to up to 2,500 Francs for adults and 600 Francs for children. This reduces monthly premiums.