Psychotherapy prescription model
The psychotherapy prescription model replaced the delegation model in 2022. Basic insurance now covers prescribed psychotherapy.
17.08.2023
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1. Who pays for my psychotherapy?
Since July 2022, your family doctor has been able to arrange psychotherapy from a psychologist with advanced training and a cantonal professional practice permit.
Your basic insurance initially covers 15 sessions, though keep costs for the deductible and coinsurance in mind. If required, a further 15 sessions can be arranged if prescribed by a doctor.
If your treatment lasts more than 30 sessions, your health insurer must provide a commitment to provide cover. A psychiatric specialist will assess your case and, if necessary, send your health insurer a recommendation to continue the therapy. Your insurer then decides if and how many additional therapy hours will be paid for.
Is delegated psychotherapy still possible?
No – the delegation model is no longer possible. Today, only the prescription model is used.
By the end of 2022, basic insurance had started covering the costs of psychotherapy if therapists were employed by an authorised doctor.
Who pays for my medically-required psychotherapy?
Regardless of the new regulation, basic insurance covers medically-required psychotherapy. The difference with psychotherapist-led psychotherapy is that medical psychotherapy is carried out by a psychiatrist. Your compulsory health insurance generally covers up to 40 sessions per year. Further sessions are possible if prescribed by a doctor.
How much does supplemental insurance pay?
As a result of the new regulation, psychotherapy services are covered by basic insurance if prescribed by a doctor. If the therapist lacks the credentials necessary to satisfy basic insurance, supplemental insurance may cover part of the costs depending on your insurance policy.
Your therapist must be recognized by your supplemental insurance provider for this. A doctor’s prescription is not shown in this case.
2. What does the new prescription model mean for me?
The advantages for patients since July 2022:
Basic insurance pays for medically prescribed psychotherapy
Easier access to outpatient psychotherapy
More choice in the search for a therapist
Shorter waiting periods
Before the new regulation, many people in Switzerland had no access to these experts. The number of delegated psychotherapy places was limited, meaning therapy through basic insurance was therefore not possible for everyone. The selection of possible therapists was also limited.
Furthermore, not everyone can afford supplemental insurance or even bear the costs of therapy sessions on their own.
Good to know: psychotherapists have a degree or master’s degree in psychology, around four to six years of further training in psychotherapy, at least three years of practical experience and a cantonal licence to practise. The entire training period generally takes around ten to 12 years.
3. What requirements do therapists have to meet?
Psychotherapists must have a cantonal licence to practice psychotherapy and have a recognized Swiss or foreign further education qualification. They must also have at least three years of clinical psychotherapy experience and carry out their profession independently and on their own account.
Good to know: psychotherapists who have previously worked in a delegated capacity must meet the same requirements as those therapists who have not worked in a delegated capacity.
4. What is covered by my health insurance?
Basic insurance covers all psychotherapy services. This includes coordination services (e.g. between doctor and therapist) as well as initial consultations and diagnoses. Psychotherapy is prescribed, meaning those seeking treatment must first make an appointment with their family doctor.
Where can I find a suitable GP practice?
Use the Comparis medical directory now to find a family doctor in your area. Depending on the information available for each doctor’s practice, you can immediately see whether new patients are being admitted.
