From the Practice · Dr. Romanos
Finding a GP in Zurich as an expat
As an expat in Switzerland, the healthcare system is one of the first hurdles. What insurance do I need? How do I find a doctor? What's covered? Here are the key points — from practice.
Mandatory basic insurance
Everyone living in Switzerland must take out basic health insurance (KVG/OKP) within 3 months. This covers GP visits, lab tests, hospital stays, and medication. Costs vary by insurer and deductible — compare offers at priminfo.admin.ch.
GP model and free choice of doctor
In the GP model (Hausarztmodell), you choose a fixed GP who is your first point of contact for all medical questions. This saves on premiums — typically 10–15%. Without a GP model, you have free choice of doctor but pay higher premiums.
Consultations in English
Many expats prefer an English-speaking doctor. At our practice, consultations are held in German, English, and Greek. More in our article on English-speaking doctors in Zurich.
What to bring to your first appointment
Insurance card, ID, current medication list, and — if available — the latest medical reports from your home country. Register as a new patient and book your first appointment online.
Useful resources
ch.ch/en offers an official overview of the Swiss healthcare system. For insurance comparisons: priminfo.admin.ch. Questions? Reach us via WhatsApp.
Next step: Book a consultation to discuss your health in detail.
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