Initial Health Assessment in Switzerland

Switzerland looks after your health with the same care it gives its snow-capped peaks. In this corner of the Alps, quality and professionalism are fixed standards. Here, doctors are true guardians of your health. Rigorously selected, they become your guides in a world of care. Every appointment is a meeting with a dedicated professional. Modern Swiss clinics offer a commitment that goes beyond services: to create the most comfortable conditions for caring for what matters most – your health.

01 Initial health assessment

An initial health assessment is a comprehensive check of your health that detects possible diseases at an early stage, when they are easier to treat. In Switzerland, the initial health assessment is an important part of preventive medicine, and all adults are advised to have one every 1–2 years.

What does an initial health assessment in Switzerland include?

The core of an initial health assessment in Switzerland consists of the following:

• Consultation with a doctor.

The doctor talks with the patient and gathers information on their medical history, lifestyle and habits. The doctor also asks about any complaints or symptoms.

• Physical examination.

During the physical examination, the doctor assesses the patient’s general health, including height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate, body temperature and so on. The doctor also examines the skin, hair, nails, eyes, nose, mouth, throat, chest, abdomen, limbs and so on.

Laboratory tests

The laboratory tests analyse the following:

• Full blood count. This test measures the number of different blood cells and shows any abnormalities in their composition.
• Blood chemistry. This test assesses the main organs and systems of the body, including the liver, kidneys, pancreas, thyroid and so on.
• Urine test. This test assesses the kidneys and urinary system.
• Stool test. This test assesses the gastrointestinal tract.

Imaging and instrumental diagnostics

Instrumental diagnostics may include the following methods:

• X-ray. An imaging method that uses X-rays to produce images of internal organs and tissues.
• Ultrasound. An imaging method that uses sound waves to produce images of internal organs and tissues.
• Computed tomography (CT). An imaging method that uses X-rays to produce three-dimensional images of internal organs and tissues.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An imaging method that uses a magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to produce images of internal organs and tissues.

02 New diagnostic technologies in Switzerland

Swiss medical institutions use the most advanced technologies for examinations. The following technologies in particular are widely used in Switzerland:

• Digital radiography. Digital radiography produces sharper, more detailed images than conventional X-rays, which increases diagnostic accuracy.
• Computed tomography (CT). CT produces three-dimensional images of internal organs and tissues. This allows a more precise assessment of organs and tissues and the detection of possible diseases.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI also produces three-dimensional images of internal organs and tissues. It is a safer method than CT and can be used to diagnose diseases that CT does not detect.
• Positron emission tomography (PET). PET visualises metabolic processes in the body. This makes it possible to detect malignant tumours at an early stage, before they are visible with other diagnostic methods.

03 Additional examinations

Depending on the patient’s age, risk factors or complaints, the doctor may order additional examinations. For example:

Men over 40

• Colonoscopy: this examination detects polyps and colon cancer. It is performed with a flexible probe inserted into the bowel through the anus.
• Faecal occult blood test: this test detects blood in the stool, which may be a sign of colon cancer.
• Prostate test: this examination detects prostate cancer. It is performed by taking a sample of prostate tissue.

Women over 50

• Mammography: this examination detects breast cancer. It is performed using X-rays.
• Breast ultrasound: this examination detects changes in the breast that may be a sign of cancer.
• Hysteroscopy: this examination allows the inside of the uterus to be viewed. It is performed with a flexible probe inserted into the uterus through the vagina.

People with risk factors

• If a person has risk factors for a particular disease, the doctor may order additional examinations to detect it at an early stage. For example, women with a family history of breast cancer are advised to have a mammogram at a younger age than women without risk factors.

People with complaints

• If a person has any complaints, the doctor may order additional examinations to identify their cause. For example, for abdominal pain the doctor may order an ultrasound or a CT scan to find possible causes.

An initial health assessment is an important step in staying healthy. Having one every 1–2 years makes it possible to detect diseases at an early stage, when they are easier to treat. In Switzerland, the initial health assessment is carried out to a high standard using the most advanced technologies.

04 How to arrange an initial health assessment in Switzerland

When it comes to an initial health assessment in Switzerland, you have a choice: organise the process yourself or turn to a specialist company for help. CorSwiss is glad to offer its services here, with a high level of professionalism and care.

We are proud of our partnerships with leading Swiss clinics and medical centres. They give our clients access to high-tech equipment and the expertise of outstanding specialists.

A Range of Assessment Programmes

We understand that every person is unique and that assessment needs differ. This is why CorSwiss offers a range of programmes covering different aspects of health, to suit different needs and budgets.

Full Support: From Paperwork to Travel

Alongside a high-quality assessment, we take care of the formalities. We will help you prepare all the necessary documents and plan your trip to Switzerland, supporting you at every stage.

Choosing to have your initial health assessment in Switzerland is an investment in your health and an opportunity to receive the highest standard of medical care. CorSwiss is ready to be your partner on this important journey, with care, professionalism and confidence in your choice.