Majority of Swiss Favor Single Health Insurance Fund

Majority of Swiss Favor Single Health Insurance Fund

Wed, Jun 12th 2024

Two-thirds of Swiss citizens support abolishing current health insurance companies in favor of a single state fund, seeking lower premiums and digital advancements.

KEYSTONE/Christian Beutler

In a recent survey, two-thirds of the Swiss population expressed support for abolishing existing health insurance companies in favor of a single state health insurance fund. A third of respondents would prefer to see changes or adaptations to the current model by the start of 2024. Additionally, 44% plan to review their health insurance policies in the fall.

The increased willingness to switch health insurers is adding pressure on these companies to evolve. According to a March survey by Deloitte, insurers need to develop their business models, increase efficiency, and adapt their offerings to comply with new regulations. The desire for lower premiums has not only driven this willingness to switch but also increased openness to digital solutions.

In the survey, 43% of respondents demanded attractive and modern digital offers, and three-quarters showed a willingness to use electronic patient files—a significant increase from the 35% reported in Deloitte’s 2022 survey.

Support for a single state health insurance fund was especially high in French-speaking Switzerland and Ticino, as well as among individuals aged 30 to 44. The primary motivation for 83% of those in favor was the expectation of lower premiums, with 26% believing a single fund could reduce premiums by 20%.

Respondents also identified key contributors to rising healthcare costs: 63% blamed the pharmaceutical industry, 59% cited patients themselves, 46% pointed to aging, and 43% noted more expensive treatments.

Deloitte conducted this representative online survey with 1,246 adults.

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