Basic vs. Supplementary Insurance in Switzerland – What’s the Difference?
Many insured people wonder: Is basic insurance really enough? Or is supplementary insurance worth it? In this article, we explain clearly and concisely the differences between the two types of insurance – and what that means for your coverage.
🛡️ What is Basic Insurance?
Basic insurance (also called KVG insurance) is legally mandatory in Switzerland. Everyone living in Switzerland must have this insurance – regardless of age or health status.
What basic insurance covers:
- Doctor visits and medical treatments
- Medications listed on the specialty list
- Hospital stays in the general ward
- Maternity benefits
- Emergency treatments for illness or accident (if no UVG coverage exists)
Important features:
- Deductible freely selectable (CHF 300 to CHF 2,500)
- Same benefits across all insurers – legally regulated
- Monthly premium depends on age, location, and model (e.g., Telmed, HMO)
📌 Basic insurance is your essential protection. But it has gaps.
➕ What is Supplementary Insurance?
Supplementary insurance is voluntary but useful for many. It extends your coverage where basic insurance does not or only partially pays.
Examples of supplementary benefits:
- Dental treatments & dental hygiene
- Glasses & contact lenses
- Alternative medicine (e.g., homeopathy, osteopathy)
- Chief physician or private ward in hospital
- Treatments abroad & rescue costs
- Fitness subscriptions & prevention courses
Important features:
- Individual benefits depending on provider
- Health check required before contract conclusion
- Premium amount depends on age, gender, and location
📌 Supplementary insurance is your personal upgrade – tailored to your needs.
🤔 Do I have to take both from the same insurer?
No. You can have basic insurance with provider A and supplementary insurance with provider B. Important is to keep track when submitting bills.
🗓️ Cancellation Deadlines: What You Need to Know
You can generally cancel basic insurance annually by December 31, provided all premiums have been paid. For certain models, cancellation by June 30 is even possible.
Supplementary insurance usually has a three-month cancellation period at the end of the year. Important: Only cancel once you have written confirmation from the new provider – especially for supplementary insurance since a health check is required.
⚖️ Legal Background
- Basic insurance: regulated by the Health Insurance Act (KVG) – benefits are identical for all insurers.
- Supplementary insurance: regulated by the Insurance Contract Act (VVG) – benefits vary widely between providers.
💡 Conclusion: What Do You Really Need?
Basic insurance is mandatory – it protects you in everyday medical situations. But if you want more benefits, comfort, or better care, you should consider supplementary insurance.
👉 With Compando, you find the right combination – simply, quickly, and independently.
🚀 Compare Now & Save
🔍 Compare your insurances now
Get free personalized offers for basic and supplementary insurance – tailored to your needs.
👉 Start now on compando.ch
