Covering the costs of health insurance abroad
The assumption of costs by health insurance abroad is an important topic for travellers and expats. In this blog, we explain which services are covered by Swiss health insurance abroad and what you should look out for.
What costs are covered by basic insurance abroad?
Basic insurance covers the costs of all medically necessary benefits in the event of illness, accident and maternity in Europe. Outside Europe, the costs of emergency treatment are covered up to twice the amount reimbursed in Switzerland.
What costs does supplementary insurance cover abroad?
Depending on the policy, supplementary insurance can cover various additional benefits abroad. Among other things, supplementary insurance can include higher cover for outpatient and inpatient treatment, repatriation to Switzerland, costs for search and rescue operations and treatment costs in private hospitals. The exact benefits and cover of supplementary insurance vary depending on the insurance contract.
What costs does health insurance cover for inpatient treatment abroad?
For inpatient treatment abroad, basic insurance covers a maximum of 90 per cent of the costs that a hospital stay in Switzerland would cost. This is because the cantons in Switzerland cover at least 55 per cent of hospital costs, which is not the case for stays abroad.
How are invoices paid abroad offset against the deductible and excess in Switzerland?
Invoices paid abroad are not offset against the deductible and excess in Switzerland. Insured persons must pay the cost sharing abroad in accordance with the regulations of the country of treatment.
Where can I find the European Health Insurance Card on the Swiss insurance card?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is located on the back of the Swiss insurance card.
What can insured persons do if they do not have their European Health Insurance Card with them?
If insured persons do not have their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with them, they can request a temporary replacement certificate with limited validity from their health insurer. This certificate serves as proof of insurance cover abroad.
What documents and evidence must be submitted in the event of reimbursement of costs abroad?
Insured persons must generally submit the following documents for the reimbursement of costs abroad:
- Original invoices and payment receipts
- Medical reports or certificates
- Proof of treatment (e.g. medical records, diagnosis)
- Any completed forms from the health insurer
Is there a maximum length of stay abroad for which Swiss health insurance will still cover costs?
Basic insurance covers medical emergencies abroad during a temporary stay. The exact definition of a temporary stay may vary depending on the insurer, but holiday trips and short-term stays are generally covered. Longer stays or emigration should be clarified individually with the health insurer.
Which health insurance companies cover the most abroad?
The best health insurance companies for covering costs abroad include Sanitas, Swica and Helsana. You can find more information on the