One of the smartest things you can do early on is find a good GP (Hausarzt / médecin de famille) — ideally before you actually need one. In Switzerland, your GP is your first point of contact for anything that isn't an emergency. They'll refer you to specialists when needed, and having someone who knows your medical history makes everything smoother.
How to find an English-speaking GP
The good news: many doctors in cities like Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Zug speak excellent English, especially younger practitioners. Here's how to find one:
- Ask your health insurer for a list of in-network GPs (Hausärzte) near you — most insurers have an online search tool where you can filter by language.
- Check Swiss90's directory of curated English-speaking practices.
- Ask colleagues or neighbours — word of mouth is genuinely the best way to find a doctor you'll like.
Pro tip: popular GPs fill up fast. If you find one you like, register straight away — even if you're perfectly healthy right now. Some practices have waiting lists of several weeks for new patients.
Your insurance model affects how you see a doctor
This one catches people off guard. If you chose an HMO or Telmed model for lower premiums, you must call the telemedicine line first before visiting any doctor in person. Skip this step and your insurer can refuse to cover the visit.
If you picked the standard (free choice) model, you can go to any GP or specialist directly without calling anyone first. The Family Doctor (Hausarzt) model is in between — you always go through your designated GP, who then refers you if needed.
Not sure which model you chose? Check your insurance policy or call your insurer — it's worth knowing before you need a doctor.
Seeing a specialist
Unlike some countries, Switzerland doesn't always require a GP referral to see a specialist — it depends on your insurance model. With standard insurance, you can book directly with a dermatologist, orthopaedist, or any other specialist. With HMO or Family Doctor models, you'll need to go through your GP or telemedicine line first.
Either way, having a GP who can coordinate your care and keep track of your history is genuinely useful — Swiss healthcare works best when your GP is the hub.
Emergencies
Save these numbers in your phone right now:
- 144 — Ambulance (the main one to remember)
- 145 — Poison control (Tox Info Suisse)
- 143 — Emergency mental health counselling (Die Dargebotene Hand)
- 112 — European emergency number (works from any phone, even without credit)
For non-life-threatening emergencies, go to the nearest hospital emergency department (Notaufnahme / Urgences). Many hospitals have a separate walk-in clinic (Permanence) for minor issues — these are faster and cheaper than the full ER.
Always carry your health insurance card (SwissPass or physical card). Hospitals will treat you regardless, but having it avoids billing headaches.