“In the worst case, people can be refused treatment”

Swiss Abroad outside the EU/EFTA must either access public healthcare in their host country or take out private insurance. “This is unfair,” says National Councillor Elisabeth Schneider-Schneiter. “A lot of these expats have paid health insurance in Switzerland for many years and, in some cases, barely claimed on it.”

It is expensive and not always possible for Swiss Abroad to take out basic health insurance in their new place of residence, Schneider-Schneiter explains. Older people or people with existing health conditions have a particularly raw deal. Their policies are often subject to exceptions and limitations – even for private care. This can have serious consequences. “In the worst case, people can be refused treatment.”

The idea that entitlement to healthcare ends at the national border has drawbacks, confirms health economist Willy Oggier. Swiss Abroad are excluded from basic state health insurance in places like Brazil or Thailand. And they have less scope for switching to private healthcare. Private options are often limited, with some policies only reserved for the under-70s and normally subject to a medical examination. Existing health conditions are, therefore, an impediment to getting adequate insurance cover. Health insurers are usually less keen to offer policies to older people. “It makes little economic sense to them.”

Centre politician Schneider-Schneiter wants the Federal Council to look into the matter and provide solutions. She has submitted a motion to this effect. Expats should be able to receive healthcare where they live, in her opinion. “Health insurers benefit from fewer people returning to Switzerland. They save money.”