Brief Review

Care Providers

Physician to population ratio is just below the EU average but is considered too high by Swiss policy makers, who believe that greater choice of physicians will result in higher costs. In 2000, federal authorities suspended the opening of new medical practices for 5 years, on the theory that cost is directly related to the number of practicing physicians. Although the number of visits to doctors has been shown to be unrelated to the density of GPs, the ban has been extended to 2008.

The most recent data from the Swiss Federal Statistical Office states that there are 3.8 practicing physicians and 14.1 nurses per 1.000 inhabitants.

The insured have freedom of choice among recognised healthcare providers, with the stipulation that treatment costs are paid for by insurers up to official tariff levels. Ambulatory service providers have freedom to practice where they wish. Perhaps as a result, physician density varies considerably – more being found in urban areas and around university hospitals. Doctors and other medical professionals are organised in cantonal and federal medical associations. These bodies negotiate fees and represent the interests of members in the political sphere. The Swiss Medical Association is responsible for regulating and accrediting postgraduate medical training.

Those whose policies are with a Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO) may be limited in their choice of physicians and hospitals, in exchange for lower insurance premiums. Costs are kept low by requiring patients to see certain doctors, with referrals generally necessary in order to see a specialist.