Approximately one-third of dentists in Switzerland accused of overcharging their patients
A retired individual from Winterthur (ZH) found himself in a shocking situation when he received a bill for CHF 4,000 for treating a single tooth. Reportedly by Swiss media, this astonishing amount left the man seeking answers from his dentist.
The dentist, however, provided a feeble explanation, which further perplexed the retiree. In response, he submitted the bill to the cantonal conciliation body, which deemed it correct, leading the man to unwillingly pay the bill, despite his disbelief in the high amount.
The media's attention was eventually drawn to the case, prompting the Swiss Dental Association to scrutinize the bill. The Association discovered the bill was approximately CHF 800 too high, and the dentist overcharged the patient by 14 points.
Moreover, it seems this isn't the only case of overcharging. According to insurance specialists, a third of dentists in Switzerland reportedly overcharge their patients by between CHF 50 and CHF 100. Overall, it is estimated that annual overbilling in the country amounts to CHF 200 million.
The question arises: Who sets dental prices in Switzerland? While the Federal Office of Public Health sets healthcare prices, dental treatments are not included in the tariff system because they are not covered by obligatory health insurance. Instead, the Swiss Dental Association determines the price list for over 500 dental treatments.
This price list is based on the number of points assigned to each treatment and the value of each tariff point. The dentist's hourly rate includes various costs, such as team members' salaries, office expenses, depreciation, and materials. Only approximately 80% of the dentist's working hours are considered billable to patients, while the remaining 20% goes towards office administration and mandatory continuing education.
The complex points system works by converting points into francs by multiplying the number of points by the point value. For social security purposes, the point value has been set at CHF 1.
Dentists in Switzerland operate privately, which means they set their own prices. They are free to charge a lower point value, but it cannot exceed CHF 1.70. Transparency is key, the SSO states, and each dental practice should publicly display the point value charged and include it on the fee statement as well.
Dental insurance is not part of the obligatory health insurance in Switzerland, but complimentary plans are available. Prices for adults typically fall between CHF 30 to CHF 60 per month, while children's insurance costs much less. It is recommended to purchase a dental policy while your teeth are in good condition and no extensive treatments are needed, or else premiums will be much higher, or you may even be denied coverage.
If you don't qualify for dental insurance but still need treatment, you can deduct your dental bill from your Swiss taxes. Be aware of any unique local healthcare policies or dental insurance regulations to help manage costs.
navigate the Swiss healthcare system and avoid overcharging, consider researching and comparing prices, asking about billing practices, ensuring full insurance coverage, maintaining regular dental care, negotiating with dental offices, and considering public healthcare options if available. Patients worldwide can also be vigilant against improper billing practices like unbundling and upcoding to avoid unexpected charges.
- The Swiss Dental Association was alerted by the media about a case where a dentist overcharged a patient by approximately CHF 800.
- According to insurance specialists, a third of dentists in Switzerland reportedly overcharge their patients by between CHF 50 and CHF 100, leading to an annual overbilling of CHF 200 million.
- Dentists in Switzerland operate privately, and while they are free to charge their own prices, they should provide transparency by publicly displaying the point value charged and including it on the fee statement, as stated by the SSO.
