×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Health Care in Basel 2024
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Muensterplatz in Basel, Switzerland


Health Care in Basel

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Summary: Explore healthcare options for expatriates and digital nomads in Basel: uncover top-rated providers, hospitals, and medical facilities to meet your needs while living abroad in Basel.

Basel offers a high-quality healthcare system that includes both public and private hospitals. The public healthcare system, known as Assurance Maladie Obligatoire (AMO), is accessible to foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, while private hospitals are also available for those who prefer them.

Switzerland's Healthcare System

Switzerland's public healthcare system, Assurance Maladie Obligatoire (AMO), is available to both Swiss citizens and foreigners. Public hospitals in Basel are known for their high-quality care and are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. Public hospitals in Basel are well-equipped and staffed with highly trained medical professionals. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Switzerland. However, many expats also choose to use private hospitals for their healthcare needs. Private hospitals in Basel are also recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, and they typically offer a more personalized and comfortable experience compared to public hospitals.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Basel

Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Basel include:

  • University Hospital Basel (public) - a leading medical center in Switzerland, located in the city center.
  • Claraspital (private) - a specialized hospital for internal medicine, oncology, and surgery, located in the Clara district.
  • Klinik Hirslanden (private) - a private hospital offering a wide range of medical services, located in the Riehen district.

Emergency Services in Basel

Ambulance services are available in Basel and can be reached by dialing 144 in case of an emergency. Ambulances are generally quick to respond, but delays may occur during peak traffic hours or in more remote areas of the city.

Health Insurance Companies in Basel

Some popular private health insurance companies in Basel include SWICA, CSS, and Helsana. These companies offer a range of insurance plans and coverage options for individuals and families. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers, depending on their needs and preferences.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Muensterplatz in Basel, Switzerland

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Cigna Global HealthCigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Contribute to Switzerland Network Contribute
Help others in Switzerland by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Switzerland.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides