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How do I change my health insurance?

Updated on May 27, 2024

As the fall and winter seasons approach, it's a reminder for many to think about switching health insurance providers. The focus is on health insurance benefits and offerings. You are not satisfied with your health insurance and are considering switching to another insurance company? In this article, you will find all the important information about changing your health insurance.

When should I change my health insurance?

  1. At the end of the year
    Most people do not consider changing health insurance companies until the end of the year, as this is when the premiums for the next year are announced by the Federal Office of Public Health. Your new premium will be communicated to you in writing by your health insurance company by the end of October at the latest.
  2. After a premium increase
    Health insurance premiums are on the rise, for a variety of reasons. The premium hike for 2024 was a historic 8.7% increase (nation-wide average) and some predictions are already talking about another 6% increase for 2025. Whenever a premium increase happens, many people look for a different provider offering the same service at lower cost. Splitting your insurance is another great way to handle the expensive monthly premiums. 
  3. When you need different coverage
    Both your life situation and your needs are always changing, so it makes sense to regularly check if you are still completely satisfied with your existing coverage. Sometimes certain benefits are no longer needed, so you should from time to time compare the latest offers of the various providers with your own policy. It also makes sense to change health insurers if too few benefits are covered for you, and you are better protected with another company.

How do I cancel my current health insurance, and what are the deadlines?

Depending on whether you have basic or supplementary insurance, different deadlines and conditions apply. 

Basic insurance

Every person must be included in the basic insurance, as it is mandatory for all persons residing in Switzerland. To change your basic insurance, you must send your old health insurance company a written notice of cancellation (by registered mail) by November 30, or by the last working day in November. The notice period is 1 month. Adjustments in the basic insurance (such as deductible rate or insurance model) are possible at any point in the year.

Supplementary insurance

Supplementary insurance closes the coverage gaps left by the mandatory basic insurance. Customers can decide for themselves whether they want to take out a 1- or 3-year contract. The cancellation period is 3 (sometimes 6) months, and the cancellation letter must be received by your health insurance company by September 30 at the latest.

Important: Do not cancel your old supplementary insurance policies until you have received confirmation from the new insurance company. Otherwise, there is a risk that you will end up without supplementary insurance if you are rejected by the new insurance company. 

When is my insurance officially terminated?

Your insurance policy with your previous insurer will only be terminated when the new insurer notifies the previous one that you are insured with them without interruption of coverage. It is also important to note that if you have any debts with your previous health insurance company, you must settle them by the end of the year, otherwise you will not be able to switch, even if the termination would be on time. This concerns the following costs:

  • Debt collection costs
  • Premiums
  • Cost sharing or default interest (if a payment reminder was delivered by November 30th)

So there are many things to consider when switching health insurance companies. In order to obtain the best offers and ensure a smooth transition, consider getting professional support. Expat Services Switzerland is here to find the best insurance package for you, answer all of your questions, and manage your paperwork. Contact us now!

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Evgeniy Timoshenko

Do you have any questions? Get in touch with me.

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