Health insurance is compulsory. Every resident of Switzerland, regardless of citizenship, must join a Swiss health insurance plan. You have three months to sign up after your arrival. Every family member must have health insurance.
You can choose among a lot of health insurance companies whose basic plans do not differ in terms of coverage for medical care. However, prices differ because of optional services or the availability of different treatment models. Among them, the model with a restricted choice of doctors (HMO Model) or with compulsory first visits to the same general practitioner, are popular. The monthly insurance rates (premiums) are much lower here than in the standard treatment schemes.
Be aware that dental procedures such as fillings and braces are not included in the basic coverage plan except in cases of acute illness or accident. Therefore by paying supplementary premiums, you may obtain extra benefits not covered by the basic plan (e.g. private room in hospital, special therapies).
And last but not least: Do not forget to cancel your health insurance three months prior to leaving Switzerland.
On request the following persons can be exempted from the compulsory health insurance:
