Thinking of switching health insurance providers?
Here are the deadlines and key points you need to know
- Insurance
Content overview
Switch health insurer in Switzerland: Here are the deadlines and key points you need to know
In autumn, many people in Switzerland review their health insurance. The premium is often the main consideration. However, a switch should not be made solely on the basis of price.
Other important criteria include:
- Quality of service
- Insurance model
- Supplementary insurance cover
- Personal needs
It is also important to bear in mind the different notice periods for basic and supplementary insurance.
What is the notice period for basic insurance?
In principle, you can switch your compulsory basic insurance (KVG) at the end of the year, subject to one month’s notice. Members with a standard excess of CHF 300 and free choice of doctor can also cancel their basic insurance with effect from 30 June.
Important:
- The notice of termination must be received by your current health insurance provider by the last working day in November at the latest during opening hours (the date of receipt is decisive, not the postmark).
- The notice of termination should be sent in good time, ideally by registered post.
What happens to the supplementary insurance?
Different rules apply to supplementary insurance (VVG) than to basic insurance. As a general rule, a three-month notice period applies, with effect from the end of the year. Notice of termination must be received by your current health insurance provider no later than the last working day in September during opening hours (the date of receipt is decisive, not the postmark). Depending on the insurer, longer contract terms may be possible.
A medical assessment is required to take out supplementary insurance. Depending on the result, the health insurer may reject an application or impose conditions.
Important: Do not cancel your existing supplementary insurance until your acceptance by the new insurer has been confirmed.
Can I have basic and supplementary insurance with different insurers?
Yes. Basic and supplementary insurance can be taken out with different health insurance providers.
Anyone who holds both types of insurance with the same health insurance provider benefits from the following advantages:
- a single point of contact for health insurance enquiries
- less administrative hassle
- an overview of your insurance cover
The solution that suits you best depends on your personal needs.
As well as the price, features and service are also important
The cheapest premium is not automatically the best option.
When choosing a health insurance provider, it is worth bearing the following points in mind:
- Basic insurance model (e.g. Telemedicine, GP or HMO model)
- Supplementary insurance cover to complement basic insurance
- Availability and quality of advice
- Processing times for claims settlements
- Digital services
- Prevention and health services
Why switch to EGK?
EGK combines personalised advice with attractive insurance plans.
Our Members benefit from:
- attractive insurance models such as EGK-TelCare or Care within basic insurance
- supplementary insurance covering Complementary medicine
- personal support from regional contacts
- advice in several national languages
- modern digital services
- attractive prevention and health services
After all, when it comes to health matters, personal advice is often crucial.
Conclusion
Switching health insurance providers requires careful preparation. If you are aware of the deadlines and consider not only the price but also the advice, service and appropriate cover, you can find the solution that suits you best.
Would you like to know which plan is right for your situation?
The EGK team will be happy to advise you in person.