Deductible rate and retention for health insurance - Explanation

The deductible is a term from the Swiss health care system and refers to the amount that insured persons must pay themselves each year before the health insurance company steps in with the basic insurance. The deductible rate is therefore the part of the health costs that insured persons have to pay themselves.

Deductible rate and retention for health insurance - Explanation
07.09.2023  |  Reading time: 3 Minute

What is the deductible for health insurance?

The deductible for health insurance is the amount that insured persons must pay themselves each year before the health insurance company will provide benefits. The deductible is prescribed by law and is usually between 300 and 2500 Swiss francs. The higher the deductible, the lower the monthly health insurance premium.

How does the deductible work in health insurance?

You first pay the costs up to the amount of your deductible out of your own pocket when you use medical services. Once you have reached this amount, your health insurance company will cover the costs of further medical services.

What types of deductible are there?

There are two types of deductible for health insurance: the ordinary deductible and the higher deductible. The ordinary deductible is usually 300 to 500 Swiss francs and is compulsory for all insured persons. The higher deductible is usually 1000 to 2500 Swiss francs and is voluntary.

Which deductible makes sense?

People who rarely go to the doctor and whose health is rather uncomplicated can benefit from a higher deductible and thus reduce their monthly health insurance premiums. On the other hand, if you often need medical services or are chronically ill, you should choose a lower deductible.

What is the difference between a deductible and a retention?

The retention refers to additional costs that you have to pay according to the deductible. The retention is 10% up to CHF 700 per year for adults. The deductible for children is 10% up to CHF 350 per year.

How can I adjust the deductible for health insurance?

The deductible for health insurance can be adjusted once a year. You can adjust the deductible in writing to the health insurance company by the end of November at the latest. The change will then come into effect on 1 January of the following year.

Until when can I change the deductible?

The deductible can be changed until the end of November of a year for the following year. The change then comes into effect on 1 January of the following year.

Can I change the deductible during the year?

No, it is not possible to change the deductible during the year.

How does the choice of my deductible affect my health insurance premiums?

The amount of your deductible directly affects the monthly premiums of your health insurance. A higher deductible such as 2500 will save you an average of CHF 130 on your health insurance premiums. In return, you have to pay the health costs up to 2500 yourself in that year. A lower deductible, on the other hand, will increase your health insurance premiums because your health insurance company will cover a larger portion of the costs.

What costs are excluded from the deductible?

Costs for certain services such as maternity, vision and hearing aids may be excluded from the deductible.

How do I choose the right deductible for children and babies?

Since children visit the doctor more often, it is recommended to choose the deductible "CHF 0".

How can I compare the deductible for health insurance?

Checkall offers an easy-to-use health insurance comparison with a handy calculator. A health insurance comparison is a user-friendly way to find the right deductible for your needs.

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