ASS eval: Switzerland's Healthcare System Reviewed: An Analysis of Its Quality
Switzerland's Top-Performing Healthcare System
In February 2025, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) released the Patient-Reported Indicator Survey (PaRIS), providing a global snapshot of primary care experiences for individuals aged 45 and over. Let's dive into the survey's results for Switzerland, a country noted for its exceptional healthcare system.
By and large, Switzerland shines in the PaRIS rankings. Over eight in ten (82%) those grappling with chronic health issues in Switzerland self-report good physical health, outperforming the OECD average. Notably, Swiss adults fare the best among participating countries in this category.
Emotional well-being is another area where Switzerland excels. Over nine in ten (91%) patients with chronic conditions report an excellent mental health quality of life, social health, and emotional distress levels. Again, Switzerland's scores soar above the OECD average.
Confidence in managing one's health is a crucial aspect of a robust healthcare system, and here too, Switzerland leads the pack: more than two-thirds (67%) of those with chronic conditions express confidence in handling their health independently, above the OECD average.
When it comes to person-centered care focusing on patients' needs and quality of care, nearly all respondents (97%) with chronic conditions in Switzerland are satisfied, surpassing the OECD average.
Regular follow-ups and extended consultations are essential for managing multiple chronic health conditions. In Switzerland, nearly four out of five people (78%) with two or more chronic conditions are managed in primary care practices that offer follow-ups and extended consultations, a notable 31% increase compared to the OECD average.
Medication management is another important aspect, and here Switzerland outperforms the OECD average: more than nine out of ten people (91%) with three or more chronic conditions in Switzerland have had their medication reviewed by a healthcare professional in the past year.
Trust in the healthcare system is another strong point,with 74% of male and 68% of female respondents expressing trust in Switzerland's healthcare system, surpassing the OECD average for men (67%) and women (58%).
However, one area for improvement in Switzerland lies in the area of electronic medical record exchange. About half (55%) of those with chronic conditions are managed in practices with the ability to electronically exchange medical records, slightly below the OECD average (57%).
What does all this data tell us?The survey results reflect the strengths of Switzerland's healthcare system. Year after year, research establishes its superiority in health outcomes, resilience, and patient satisfaction.
Other studies, like a previous OECD report and one by the US-based Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity (FREOPP), highlight Switzerland's superb healthcare system compared to other nations.
Our Take:While Switzerland excels in many aspects, its healthcare costs remain a significant hurdle. Premiums for mandatory health insurance continue to climb, with various factors contributing to increased expenses, such as longevity, expensive treatments, and unnecessary procedures.
For a comprehensive understanding of the OECD's PaRIS survey for Switzerland, consult OECD publications or the PaRIS dataset directly on their website.
- The Patient-Reported Indicator Survey (PaRIS) by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) offers a comprehensive global view of primary care experiences for individuals aged 45 and over.
- In the PaRIS rankings, Switzerland performs exceptionally well with over 80% of those with chronic health issues reporting good physical health.
- Swedes have the second-best physical health among participating countries, with Swiss adults outperforming them.
- Switzerland leads other nations in emotional well-being as over 90% of patients with chronic conditions report excellent mental health, social health, and emotional distress levels.
- Confidence in handling one's health is a crucial aspect, and over two-thirds of people with chronic conditions in Switzerland express confidence in managing their health independently.
- Person-centered care focusing on patients' needs and quality of care is a significant strength of Switzerland's healthcare system, with nearly all respondents satisfied.
- Primary care practices in Switzerland offer follow-ups and extended consultations for nearly four out of five people with multiple chronic health conditions, showing a 31% increase compared to the OECD average.
- Over 90% of people with three or more chronic conditions in Switzerland have had their medication reviewed by a healthcare professional in the past year.
- Trust in Switzerland's healthcare system is strong, with 74% of male and 68% of female respondents expressing trust in the system.
- Electronic medical record exchange needs improvement in Switzerland, with about half of those with chronic conditions managed in practices able to electronically exchange records, slightly below the OECD average.
- The survey results underscore the strengths of Switzerland's healthcare system, with consistent research supporting its superiority in health outcomes, resilience, and patient satisfaction.
- Other studies, like a previous OECD report and one by the US-based Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity (FREOPP), support Switzerland's outstanding healthcare system compared to other countries.
- Despite Switzerland's healthcare system excellence, healthcare costs remain a significant challenge, with premiums for mandatory health insurance continuing to rise.
- Longevity, expensive treatments, and unnecessary procedures are some factors contributing to increased healthcare expenses in Switzerland.
- For a detailed understanding of the OECD's PaRIS survey for Switzerland, consult OECD publications or access the PaRIS dataset directly on their website.
- Workplace wellness programs aim to promote health and prevent chronic diseases, such as chronic kidney disease, type-2 diabetes, cancer, respiratory conditions, and digestive health issues.
- Eye health, hearing, and skin care require regular check-ups and preventive measures to maintain optimal health and address conditions like eye diseases, hearing impairment, and skin conditions.
- Fitness and exercise, nutrition, and weight management play crucial roles in cardiovascular health, overall health, and the management of chronic diseases.
- The autoimmune disorders sector includes conditions like rheumatoid arthritis that require specialized medical care and therapies and treatments.
- In the area of renewable energy, the manufacturing industry can play a significant role in reducing carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices.
- Mental health is essential for overall well-being, and proper care and treatments are necessary to manage conditions like depression, anxiety, and stress.
- Real estate, included in the retail sector, can offer housing solutions for diverse communities, promoting diversity and inclusion in residential and commercial spaces.
- Public transit systems benefit from investments in infrastructure and fleet renewal to facilitate a more efficient transportation network and reduce environmental impact.
- Entrepreneurship requires effective leadership, strategic planning, and financial management to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and grow businesses in various industries, such as automotive, venture capital, personal finance, and banking and insurance.
- A strong focus on affordable housing, financial management, and debt management is necessary to support small businesses in the housing market and help them thrive in a competitive environment.
- The venture capital industry represents a significant source of funding for startups, with investments crucial for driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth in the fintech and real estate sectors.
- Wealth management, including personal finance, stock market investments, and private equity, allows individuals and businesses to optimize their finances and secure their financial futures.
- Reducing debt and improving saving habits can help individuals achieve financial stability and weather economic downturns, as well as create a foundation for long-term financial success.
- Budgeting and financial planning are essential skills for managing personal finances effectively, while technology and gadgets facilitate efficient financial management and monitoring.
- The health and wellness industry encompasses various sectors, including fitness and exercise, nutrition, and mental health, all seeking to improve overall well-being, promote disease prevention, and enhance quality of life.
