In Switzerland, it is important to differentiate between two specific situations of disability: disability due to an accident, and disability due to an illness. disease and disability caused by accident. In the first case, the disability pension is paid by the 2nd pillar (BVG)while in the second, it's theaccident insurance (AA) which covers the payment of a disability pension.
Why change health insurers?
There are several reasons why you might consider changing your health insurance. The main reason could be to reduce your premiums. Health insurers charge different rates depending on age, canton and model. Your insurer may have increased its rates, so switching to another insurer may be more advantageous.
For the compulsory part, all health insurers are obliged to provide the same benefits.
How long does it take to change health insurers?
Changes to basic insurance (KVG/LAMal)
Basic insurance is regulated by law and offers the same benefits across all insurance companies. You can change it every year under certain conditions:
- Cancellation deadline: November 30: The health insurer must receive your cancellation request by November 30 at the latest (if a holiday, on the last working day).
- Cancellation deadline: March 31: If you are insured under the standard model and have the lowest deductible (CHF 300 adults - CHF 0 children).
- When premiums increase during the year: One month's notice from the date of notification by the health insurer.
Change of supplementary insurance
Supplementary insurances, which cover additional services (alternative medicine, private rooms in hospitals, glasses, etc.), are subject to different rules:
- Variable notice period: Depending on the contract, it can be from 3 to 6 months, or even longer.
- Policyholder selection: Unlike basic insurance, the new insurance may refuse your membership or impose reserves for certain illnesses.
How do I change my health insurer?
- 1. Compare offers: Use an online comparator (such as the FOPH's Priminfo) or request several quotes from health insurers.
- 2. Choose a new caisse: Unlike basic insurance, the new insurance may refuse your membership or impose reserves for certain illnesses.
- 3. Send the cancellation: Send your letter of termination to your current caisse before November 30 (or March 31).
- 4. Ensure membership of the new fund: Check that your new insurance is confirmed before the end of the year.
Tips for optimizing your health insurance
- Choose an alternative model: Family doctors, HMOs and telemedicine can help reduce premiums.
- Adapt your franchise: A higher deductible (CHF 2,500) reduces your monthly premium if you have few medical expenses.
- Take advantage of discounts for young people and families: Some caisses offer discounts for young adults or families with several children.
- Check waiting times for complementary products: If you have a medical condition, have your admission validated by the new insurance company before cancelling your old one.
Frequently asked questions
You can change your basic insurance every year by sending in your cancellation notice by November 30 or the March 31 (subject to conditions). For supplementary insurance, deadlines vary according to the contract.
Yes, especially for supplementary insurance, because the new insurance company can refuse to accept you or impose restrictions. For basic insurance, there is no selection process, so you'll always be accepted.
You must send a letter of cancellation to your current caisse by November 30. Termination will take effect on January 1st of the following year.
If you have a deductible of CHF 300 and are insured under the standard model, the deadline is March 31. Termination will take effect on June 30.
No, as long as you have paid all your current premiums and bills.
Your contract will be automatically renewed for a further year.
- Family doctor : You always consult your referring physician.
- HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) Coordinated care network.
- Telemedicine Telephone consultation before visiting a doctor.
Yes, but beware of delays that can range from 3 to 6 months depending on your contract.
Yes, for basic insurance, because all insurance companies must accept you unconditionally. For supplementary insurance, however, your medical file may be examined, and reservations may be applied.
Français 
English