City, Switzerland
Healthcare in Zurich: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Zurich
Excellent but costly; insurance or a deposit is expected. Call 144 for an ambulance; walk-in permanence clinics near the station take non-emergencies.
Hospitals for foreigners in Zurich
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| University Hospital Zurich (USZ) | Main emergency hospital; Switzerland's top-rated care |
| Klinik Hirslanden | Private clinic with emergency department |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: CHF120–220 ($145–265) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Switzerland: Excellent but among the world's priciest: a GP visit often costs CHF 100–200 and emergency care far more. EU visitors use the EHIC; everyone else needs solid insurance.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacists can advise on minor ailments and sell many medicines; prices are high. Big-station pharmacies open late.
- Health spending: US$11,784 per person a year (2023); 4.5 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 117 · Ambulance 144 · Fire 118 · All emergencies 112.
Travel and health insurance
Required for entry: Schengen visa applicants need travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000; residents must buy Swiss basic health insurance within three months.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Zurich for foreigners?
University Hospital Zurich (USZ): Main emergency hospital; Switzerland's top-rated care
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Zurich?
About CHF120–220 ($145–265) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Switzerland?
Schengen visa applicants need travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000; residents must buy Swiss basic health insurance within three months.
More about Zurich
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Switzerland
- Zurich Airport
- Zurich Tourism
- SBB
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.