🇨🇭 Switzerland Healthcare Guide
Switzerland has some of the best healthcare in the world — Zurich's Universitatsspital and Geneva's HUG are internationally renowned — but it's also the most expensive in Europe by a wide margin, with a routine GP visit running $180 or more. The system is divided by canton and language: German in Zurich, French in Geneva, Italian in Ticino — having your medical documents in the language of where you're staying avoids delays at registration.
Quick facts
- Emergency number: 144
- Healthcare system: universal-public
- Average GP visit: $180 USD
- EHIC/GHIC accepted: Yes
- Language barrier: low
Healthcare overview
Switzerland’s healthcare is excellent but among the most expensive in the world. All residents must hold mandatory private health insurance; there is no public system in the traditional sense. EHIC is accepted for emergency and necessary care, but co-payments and deductibles are high. University hospitals in Zurich (USZ), Bern (Inselspital), Geneva (HUG), and Basel (USB) are world-class. A standard GP visit costs CHF 150–300 (€155–310).
Very high costs
A GP visit costs CHF 150–300, and a day of hospitalisation can exceed CHF 1,000. Budget accordingly even with EHIC coverage.
Cantonal system differences
Healthcare administration varies by canton. Zurich, Bern, and Geneva each have slightly different procedures for visitor access.
Vaccinations
Recommended
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
Prescriptions and pharmacies
Swiss pharmacies are well-stocked and staffed by highly trained pharmacists. Medication prices are high by international standards. Many medications OTC in neighbouring countries require a prescription in Switzerland. Carry your full supply and budget for significant costs if local purchase is needed.
High medication prices
Swiss medication prices are the highest in Europe. Carry everything you need rather than buying locally.
Tips for travellers
University hospitals in Zurich, Bern, and Geneva are among Europe’s finest specialist centres. Specialist access is generally through a GP referral, though some private clinics accept direct bookings. Having your treatment history saved and accessible in German, French, or Italian (depending on the canton) helps specialists continue your care. Swiss hospitals are meticulous with documentation, so comprehensive records save significant intake time.
Language by canton
German-speaking cantons (Zurich, Bern), French-speaking (Geneva, Lausanne), and Italian-speaking (Ticino) each operate in the local language.