Health
Switzerland has an outstanding healthcare system that is accessible to all. However, the country’s healthcare system also faces significant challenges.
Challenges
People in Switzerland have a long life expectancy and, thanks to mandatory health insurance, access to any medical care they might need. The Swiss healthcare system is efficient, but it is also one of the most expensive. Health authorities face various challenges:
- Although people are living longer, chronic diseases are also becoming more prevalent, especially in old age.
- At the same time, there is a skills shortage in some areas of healthcare.
- Demographic changes and advances in medical technology are pushing up costs.
- Digitalisation in the healthcare sector requires extensive measures to ensure that everyone benefits from it.
Ensuring an effective and accessible healthcare system
In the health policy strategy for 2020–2030, the Federal Council outlines how it intends to address these challenges in order to keep healthcare accessible for all and financially sustainable.
The FOPH promotes a healthy lifestyle
The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) is responsible for national health policy and – together with the cantons – for the health of the Swiss population. The FOPH also represents Switzerland as the national health authority in international organisations and towards other countries.
The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) is tasked with promoting the health of the Swiss population. This covers a wide range of areas. The FOPH is responsible for statutory health and accident insurance. It is also in charge of health promotion, the strategy for combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs), addiction prevention and protection against sexually transmitted diseases. It regulates chemical safety and radiation protection. It is also responsible for the regulations on therapeutic products, the legislation in the areas of biosafety, human research and transplant medicine, as well as the regulations governing medical and health professions that require a university degree.
Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH)
Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products Swissmedic
Swissmedic is the national authorisation and supervisory authority for drugs and medical products. By ensuring that only high-quality, safe and effective medical products are available in Switzerland, the agency makes an important contribution to protecting human and animal health.
To develop a medicinal product, companies must obtain Swissmedic’s approval for any clinical trials that are necessary. In addition, a Swissmedic establishment licence is needed to manufacture medicinal products. Once the clinical trials are completed, the company may apply to Swissmedic for the product to be authorised. The documentation submitted is assessed by Swissmedic in accordance with the internationally recognised criteria of quality, safety and efficacy. The medication is only approved if the quality, safety and efficacy levels are found to be high and if the benefits outweigh the risks.