Children’s Healthcare in Switzerland: A Comprehensive Guide for Expats

Introduction to Children’s Healthcare in Switzerland

Switzerland offers one of the highest-quality healthcare systems in the world, and this extends to pediatric care. With a strong emphasis on preventative healthcare, specialized pediatric services, and universal health insurance, parents in Switzerland can access world-class medical care for their children. However, understanding how to access pediatric healthcare, insurance requirements, and specialist services is essential for expats.

This guide covers everything expat families need to know about children’s healthcare in Switzerland, from routine check-ups and vaccinations to dental care and mental health services.

How to Access Healthcare for Your Children in Switzerland

Healthcare in Switzerland operates on a mandatory insurance-based model, and every child must have their own health insurance policy. Parents must secure basic health insurance (LaMal) for their children within three months of birth or relocation. This insurance covers:

• Routine check-ups and pediatric care

• Emergency medical services

• Hospital visits and treatments

• Basic vaccinations

• Medical specialist referrals

Public vs. Private Healthcare for Children

While public healthcare provides high-quality medical services, many expat families opt for supplementary private health insurance to access:

• More extensive dental coverage

• Private hospital rooms

• A wider choice of pediatricians and specialists

• Alternative treatments such as osteopathy or homeopathy

For remote healthcare consultations, parents can use Travel Doctor, which offers telehealth services for basic primary care. Learn more about how it works and explore treatment options.

Pediatricians and Routine Check-ups

Pediatricians are the primary healthcare providers for children in Switzerland. Parents can freely choose their child’s pediatrician, but it is advisable to check if they are a member of the Swiss Society of Pediatrics (SGP).

Recommended Health Check-ups for Children

The SGP recommends regular check-ups to monitor a child’s growth, vaccination status, and overall health. The standard schedule includes visits at:

• 1, 2, 4, 6, 12, and 18 months

• 2, 4, 6, 10, and 14 years

These check-ups include developmental screenings, hearing and vision tests, and BMI monitoring.

Vaccinations for Children in Switzerland

Switzerland does not have mandatory vaccinations, but the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) strongly recommends the following vaccines:

• Whooping cough

• Diphtheria

• Hepatitis B

• Tetanus

• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)

• HPV

• Varicella (chickenpox)

Basic health insurance covers all recommended childhood vaccinations.

Specialist and Emergency Care for Children

When to See a Specialist

In some cases, children may need specialist care for conditions such as asthma, dermatology, allergies, or developmental disorders. Some specialists require a referral from a pediatrician, while others allow direct appointments.

Children’s Hospitals in Switzerland

Switzerland has specialized pediatric hospitals and departments within major university hospitals in Zurich, Geneva, Bern, and Basel. In emergencies, children can also receive care in general hospital emergency rooms.

Emergency Medical Services for Children

• National Emergency Number: 112

• Ambulance Services: 144 (50% of ambulance costs are covered by insurance)

• Hospital Emergency Rooms: Available in all major cities

Children’s Dental Care in Switzerland

• Annual dental check-ups are provided in Swiss schools

• Basic health insurance does not cover standard dental care

• Parents can purchase private dental insurance to cover routine dental check-ups, orthodontic treatments, and braces

Mental Healthcare for Children in Switzerland

Switzerland offers school-based mental health services, youth counseling, and specialist pediatric mental healthcare. Some services covered by basic health insurance include:

• Counseling for anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders

• Therapy for ADHD and autism

• Psychiatric hospital care (if necessary)

Preventative Healthcare Programs for Children

Swiss schools play an active role in preventative healthcare education, offering programs in:

• Sex education

• Dental hygiene

• Nutrition and physical activity

These initiatives help promote lifelong healthy habits in children.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Parents in Switzerland

• All children must have basic health insurance, which covers pediatric care, vaccinations, and hospital treatments

• Routine pediatric check-ups are essential for monitoring a child’s development

• Switzerland does not have mandatory vaccinations, but recommended vaccines are covered by insurance

• Children can access specialist care and mental health services when needed

• Emergency medical services are available nationwide, but ambulance services require partial payment

• Dental care is not covered by basic health insurance, and parents should consider private dental insurance

• Schools offer preventative healthcare programs to support children’s health and well-being

For telehealth consultations, parents can access Travel Doctor for remote medical services. In-person pediatric services are available in select cities, including Paris, Berlin, and Budapest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is children’s healthcare free in Switzerland? No, healthcare in Switzerland is insurance-based, and all children must have individual health insurance policies.

2. What vaccinations are recommended for children in Switzerland? Switzerland recommends whooping cough, diphtheria, hepatitis B, tetanus, MMR, HPV, and varicella (chickenpox) vaccines.

3. Are dental treatments covered by health insurance? No, basic health insurance does not cover routine dental care. Parents should consider private dental insurance.

4. How do I find a pediatrician in Switzerland? Parents can search for certified pediatricians through the Swiss Society of Pediatrics (SGP) or Swiss Medical Association directories.

5. Can I access remote pediatric care in Switzerland? Yes, Travel Doctor provides telehealth services for primary care and pediatric consultations.

For comprehensive pediatric care, parents can use telehealth services or visit pediatric specialists in Swiss hospitals and clinics.