Healthcare in Geneva

Expats are typically satisfied with the standard of healthcare in Geneva, but they should prepare to pay for medical insurance. Health insurance is compulsory in Switzerland, but it isn't state sponsored, so residents have to take out a policy themselves.

Insurance premiums are based on geographic area rather than salary. So even expats without an exceptional wage may still have to foot a hefty health insurance bill. The canton, fortunately, does have subsidies for those who need it, and insurance costs for children are usually discounted.

Expats should compare plans from different service providers to find something that suits their budget and needs.

Geneva’s hospitals and health professionals are generally excellent. Most medical staff are well-qualified and speak English as well as French. Pharmacies are usually open from 8.30am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday, and some are open 24 hours a day. Most prescription drugs are readily available. There is a large pool of private doctor's practices in Geneva, and a list can be found through the canton's Association des Medecins, in French.

In the event of a medical emergency, expats can dial 144.

Hospitals in Geneva

Geneva University Hospitals (HUG)

Website: www.hug-ge.ch
Address: Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205 Geneva

Clinique Générale Beaulieu

Website:www.beaulieu.ch
Address: Chemin Beau-Soleil 20, 1206 Geneva

Hopital de la Tour

Website: www.la-tour.ch
Address: Avenue JD Maillard 3, 1217 Meyrin

Clinique la Colline

Website: https://www.hirslanden.ch
Address: Avenue Beau-Séjour 6, 1206 Geneva

Further reading

►For more on medical issues, see Healthcare in Switzerland

Are you an expat living in Geneva?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Geneva. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.

Expat Health Insurance Partners

Aetna International

Aetna offers award-winning international health insurance plans to more than 55 million members worldwide. Their plans are tailored to meet the individual needs of you and your family while you are away from your home country, living and working abroad. Get peace of mind knowing you and your family will be protected and have access to quality health care wherever you are, where you need it.

* For a limited time, there is a discount of up to 20% on new multi-member policies and up to 10% on single member policies. This offer is valid until 19 June 2020. See website for details.

Get a quote from Aetna International

Cigna_logo_300.png

Cigna Global

With 86 million customer relationships in over 200 countries, Cigna Global has unrivalled experience in dealing with varied and unique medical situations and delivering high standards of service wherever you live in the world.

Get a quote from Cigna Global