So, Jun 2nd 2024
Health insurance premiums in Switzerland surpass CHF 10,000. Doctors criticize patient behaviors, and the Federal Council debates postal service changes.
Health insurance premiums in Switzerland have exceeded CHF 10,000 this year. In Geneva, Agrisano is offering basic insurance at CHF 11,252 for adults with the lowest deductible. This trend indicates that average premiums could reach similar levels in the future. Felix Schneuwly, a health expert at Comparis, stated, “Premiums of CHF 10,000 are massive, but possible if gross domestic product and prosperity continue to increase and wages rise.”
The Federal Council plans to decide on the basic postal service, including A Mail, before the summer break. SVP Federal Councillor Albert Rösti’s communications department confirmed that this issue will be addressed before July 8. Multiple sources suggest Rösti might reconsider his proposals for basic services.
Doctors have expressed concerns about healthcare costs, attributing part of the cost explosion to unnecessary treatments. According to unnamed doctors, 40-50% of examinations are unnecessary. They cite general practitioners referring patients to specialists, patient demands for extensive tests, and financial incentives for doctors as contributing factors. Health economist Heinz Locher remarked, “If even the doctors are upset about it, it must be bad.”
Switzerland is also playing a role in mediating conflicts in Niger. Since the 2023 military coup, Niger has faced ongoing unrest. Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and Niger’s Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangaré met recently to discuss Switzerland’s potential mediation role. Niger expressed interest in Switzerland’s mediation expertise, aiming for a political transition and peaceful relations.
Federal Councillor Beat Jans is under scrutiny for the departure of Fedpol chief Nicoletta della Valle. Questions arose about whether Jans wanted to part ways with della Valle, who received a severance payment of 340,000 francs. Severance payments are unusual for voluntary resignations, suggesting the impetus for termination may have come from the employer. Jans’ department plans to respond next week.
Swiss academia is preparing a plan B in case negotiations on bilateral relations with the EU fail. Martina Hirayama, State Secretary for Education, mentioned that Swiss universities would intensify cooperation with EU member states independently. A memorandum of understanding with Denmark in quantum technology exemplifies these efforts.
Lastly, Swiss cinemas face challenges as admissions dropped by over 12% compared to last year. Industry sources cite the Hollywood strikes as a major factor, impacting the supply of films and resulting in disappointing box office returns for major releases like “The Fall Guy” and “Furiosa.”
©Keystone/SDA
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