It is widely believed that treatment in Switzerland costs far more than in other Western European countries and is on a par with the high prices of clinics in the USA. In this article we look at whether this is really so, and at what you pay for when you choose treatment in Switzerland.

Switzerland’s hallmark is quality in everything, from chocolate and immaculate roads to the way the state is run. Naturally, patients expect Swiss clinics to offer impeccable service — and an invoice with a five-figure sum.

In reality, the price of treatment in Switzerland differs little from the cost of equivalent services in, for example, Germany. In Russia there is a widespread myth that only heads of state, oligarchs or superstars can afford treatment or rehabilitation in Switzerland. In fact, a patient who can afford treatment at the best private clinics in Moscow will, more often than not, also find treatment in Switzerland within reach. And the level of service and quality of treatment in Switzerland will be considerably higher than in Russian medical institutions.

The cost of examinations and diagnostics at Swiss clinics

In Switzerland, patients are assured of precise and comprehensive diagnostics and a conscientious approach from specialists.

An examination in Switzerland includes:

  • a consultation with a qualified doctor,
  • diagnostics on the most modern, advanced equipment
  • the latest diagnostic methods
  • five-star service

On average, a complete blood count and a full cardiac examination with a doctor’s consultation and a prescribed course of treatment cost around 7,000 francs, or EUR 6,000. Computed tomography with a report costs roughly the same.

A urological examination, mammography and a gynaecological examination at a private Swiss clinic cost on average 1,500 to 2,000 francs, or EUR 1,300–1,700.

An ultrasound examination of the veins and arteries of the whole body costs approximately 2,900 francs, or EUR 2,600.

Gastroscopy (with biopsy), colonoscopy (with biopsy) and ultrasound of all internal organs cost around 3,900 francs, or EUR 3,500.

A detailed cardiac examination and consultation with a leading cardiologist at a Swiss private clinic costs 2,500 francs, or EUR 2,200.

The cost of dental care in Switzerland

A visit to a Swiss dentist costs from 800 francs, or EUR 700. This covers simple restorative treatment, excluding prosthetics and orthodontic treatment. Such prices for dental care are by no means exceptional in Europe: in French and German clinics you will pay at least as much. Swiss dentistry offers the most modern medical equipment, 3D technology, and dentists who have created Hollywood smiles for many celebrities and politicians.

The cost of treating digestive disorders in Switzerland

Swiss medical equipment in gastroenterology is considered among the best in the world. At private clinics in Switzerland, you are very likely to be treated by a professor of medicine or a senior doctor of medicine with extensive practical experience.

85–90% of patients with gastrointestinal (GI) disorders who come to Swiss clinics are cured.

Treatment of the digestive organs costs on average 4,000 francs, or EUR 3,600.

Prices for orthopaedics and trauma treatment in Switzerland

Problems of this type require surgery. A knee operation takes 75 minutes. These are mostly open operations since, for example, with a torn cruciate ligament the surgeon needs direct access in order to operate successfully.

An orthopaedic operation costs around 26,000 francs, or EUR 23,000. Joint replacement surgery costs more, around 50,000 francs, or EUR 45,000, as the operation itself takes approximately 90 minutes and the damaged knee also has to be replaced with implants, the cost of which is included in the price of the operation.

The price of the operations described above includes a seven-day stay at the clinic in a single room, three meals a day, the operating theatre, general anaesthesia, the fees of the doctor and assistant, and physiotherapy at the clinic.

The cost of giving birth in Switzerland

Giving birth in Switzerland means maximum safety and comfort for the mother-to-be and her baby. Childbirth is a package service. You will need to stay in the country before the birth and for some time after the baby is born.

Giving birth at a private Swiss clinic with an impeccable reputation costs on average 36,000 francs, or EUR 32,000, for a natural birth, or 47,000 francs, or EUR 42,000, for a caesarean section.

The price includes accommodation for the mother in five-star hotel conditions, the full range of necessary antenatal examinations, care by an obstetrician-gynaecologist, the birth itself and postnatal care.

All prices given in this article are approximate. The final cost depends on the clinic and the patient’s individual situation.

You can find out the individual cost of treatment for your situation through an online consultation with a specialist at the clinic of your choice. Once a treatment plan has been drawn up and your health has been assessed, the doctor can give a more precise figure.

Given its high standards, level of service and the expertise of its specialists, treatment in Switzerland remains reasonably accessible.

If you are looking for the ideal treatment option abroad — one that meets your expectations and your budget — and are unsure where to begin, contact the CorSwiss team. We will be your trusted guide to the world of Swiss medicine and health.

The cost of medical examinations in Switzerland*

Field Cost
Examination and specialist consultation 7,000 francs
Urological or gynaecological examination 1,500 to 2,000 francs
Ultrasound examination of the veins and arteries of the whole body 2,900 francs
Gastroscopy (with biopsy), colonoscopy (with biopsy) and ultrasound of all internal organs 3,900 francs

The cost of treatment in Switzerland*

Field Cost
Dentistry (restorative treatment, consultation) from 800 francs
Gastroenterology (GI treatment) 4,000 francs
Orthopaedic operation 26,000 francs
Joint replacement surgery 50,000 francs
Childbirth in Switzerland from 36,000 francs

*The prices shown are approximate.