Hospital Insurance: The Flex Model Under the Microscope
Low premiums, but full flexibility? We explain how the flex model really works and where the hidden costs lie.
Freedom of choice – at a high price?
The flex model is a hybrid form of supplementary hospital insurance. You pay a significantly lower monthly premium than with pure semi-private or private insurance. In return, you only decide which ward you want to stay in at the moment of hospital admission. But beware: This flexibility comes at a price in the form of a high deductible.
- ✔ Low premiums: Ideal for young, healthy people who want to save money.
- ✔ Freedom of choice: You only decide on comfort upon hospital admission.
- ✔ General ward: Always without additional costs (throughout Switzerland).
- ✔ Cost warning: High deductible when choosing semi-private or private.
- ✔ Planning: Good for people who can bear the financial risk in an emergency.
⚠️ The "Flex Trap"
Don't be fooled by extremely low premiums. Many insurance advisors sell the flex model as "private insurance" but only mention the massive deductible in the fine print. Once you are in the hospital, it is too late to change!
Cost Example in an Emergency
This is how much you pay for an upgrade to the semi-private ward:
| Ward | General | Semi-Private (Flex) | Private (Flex) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost sharing | CHF 0.- | CHF 2,000.- to 3,000.- | CHF 3,000.- to 5,000.- |
| Room | Multi-bed room | Twin room | Single room |
| Doctor choice | Hospital doctor | Senior physician | Chief physician |
What You Need to Know About the Flex Model
This varies depending on the insurer. Typically, you pay between CHF 1,000 and CHF 4,000 per hospital stay if you choose a semi-private or private room.
It is worth it if you rarely need to go to the hospital and the low premium outweighs the potential costs of a high deductible in an emergency over the years.
Yes, with every hospital admission you can decide anew whether you want the general ward (free) or an upgrade for a fee.
Should I switch to the flex model?
We calculate for you whether the premium savings justify the risk of the deductible. Get free advice now.
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