There are many people who still believe that, in Switzerland, you have to see a psychiatrist first before seeing a psychologist, that the process is long and complicated, or simply that it isn’t covered by health insurance. There has been a significant change that many people are unaware of: since July 2022, registered psychologists have been able to bill the LAMal directly using the so-called medical prescription model.
What does this mean in practice? It means that if you need to see a psychologist, you can speak to your GP, ask for a referral, and take that referral directly to the psychologist of your choice. The referral entitles you to a maximum of 15 sessions. If, once you’ve finished these sessions, you need to continue, your GP and the psychologist will exchange information and a new referral can be issued. After 30 sessions, the insurance provider must be consulted. The process exists, is regulated, and works.
The cost doesn’t disappear entirely. The sessions are subject to the same rules as any medical treatment: first, your excess is deducted (300 CHF if you have the basic cover, or more if you’ve opted for a higher level), and then you pay 10 per cent of the cost up to an annual limit of 700 CHF. Once that threshold is exceeded, the rest is covered by the health insurance fund. It isn’t free, but nor do you have to pay the full private consultation fee out of your own pocket.
What you do need to bear in mind is that demand for psychologists in Switzerland is high and there are genuine waiting lists. It’s not always as simple as getting a referral and booking an appointment the following week. But the system is there. Many Spaniards who have been here for years aren’t aware of this. If you ever need to use it, the first step is to speak to your GP.