We got a letter from our insurer yesterday - changes in 2012. We have Innova in Kt. Bern

This refers to the basic cover - in addition to listing the complimentary stuff (acupuncture, homeopathy, etc) that will be covered, the letter also said that next year, you can choose to be treated in any hospital throughout Switzerland, and still be covered. However, if it's very expensive to go outside your kanton, the kanton will have to cover the cost and may pass it on to you (I think that's what it said).

They also said that the premiums would decrease something like 2%. It's not much, but it is down.

Anyone else get something similar?

Thanks, no, I'll keep an eye out for it though as hubby made a poor decision last year regarding changes to his coverage, which has come back to kick us in the ass... so I'm definitely looking for things that will help with the costs of and freedom of choices for our insurance!

I've noticed prices for 2012 started to show up on comparis.ch

The premium reduction was just for Innova in Bern, and it was an average over all models, I think.

My interpretation is that in 2012 the basic insurance law will be changed. The health insurance must enable you to seek routine hospital treatment in other cantons, but if it is more expensive then you will have to pay the difference.

Maybe your insurance company was covering you for extra cantonal treatment and is now falling into line with the new law, i.e. reducing your cover?

Be aware that alternative medicine (acupuncture et al.) will only be covered, if administered by an MD with additional qualification complementary medicine. If you're treated by anybody else -> no coverage.

For more information see the website of my TCM therapist: http://www.atwood.ch > Important Information.