The government had said health insurance premiums in Switzerland will increase by 4.4 percent on average in 2026 but, in fact, consumers may end up paying quite a bit more.
This is the conclusion of an analysis carried out by the consulting firm Deloitte after the new rates were announced on September 23rd.
READ ALSO: Swiss health insurance premiums to rise by more than 4 percent in 2026
“Our analysis has revealed that many policyholders paying the cheapest premiums on the market will face a 7-percent hike on average, much higher than the officially communicated figure of 4.4 percent,” Delotte said.
For a household, this represents an average of 23 francs more per month and per adult than current rates – and not 16.60 francs that the government mentioned.
Regional disparities
These costs will be even higher if differences between cantons are taken into account.
“The premium burden is not only the result of rising healthcare costs, but is also explained by regional and political framework conditions,” said Marcel Thom, an expert at Deloitte.
As a reminder, with a hike of 6.9 percent over current premiums, residents of Ticino will be saddled with the highest increase – 582 francs a month.
Next is Valais (5.8 percent – 439 francs); Appenzell-Innerrhoden (5.5 percent- 322 francs); Uri (5.3 percent – 363 francs); Zurich (5.1 percent- 451 francs); and Graubünden (5 percent – 400 francs).
These are the highest increases, according to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH).
READ ALSO: Which Swiss cantons will see highest hikes in health insurance premiums?
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Shopping around
The survey also highlights a strong propensity among policyholders to switch insurance companies when rates increase.
Between 7 and 10 percent – or nearly 900,000 people – are expected to change their providers.
According to Deloitte’s analysis, the Swiss make the switch as soon as the increase exceeds 30 francs per month.
Another striking finding from the study is that the price gaps between insurers’ lowest premiums are narrowing further and further.
