Swiss government wants vaccinations to be free from 2017

Le Matin.

From 2017, all vaccinations covered by Switzerland’s compulsory health insurance could be free, even for those with a deductible. The extra costs have not yet been calculated and health insurers are concerned.

Residents of Switzerland are required by law to take out basic health insurance. Individuals are free to choose their provider and must pay the premiums themselves. Premiums can be reduced by increasing the size of the deductible, an amount that must be covered by the insured before the insurance cover kicks in. The Swiss government’s vaccination plan would require insurance companies to cover the cost of vaccinations regardless of deductibles.

The Swiss federal health office, wants to increase the number of adult vaccinations.

Children and mothers receive the most vaccinations in Switzerland. Other adults are less likely to get vaccinated. Vaccinations that could be free in the future include tetanus, measles, flu, hepatitis and papillomavirus.

The Swiss federal health office is focused on improving vaccination rates among young adults, in particular booster shots. This age band is the most likely to have high deductibles, because they are healthier and often more cost conscious.

However the health office’s plan will increase costs, something still being calculated. And no details on how it will be financed have been revealed. This lack of clarity has put health insurers on edge.

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