Health insurance
Which deductible suits you?
A high deductible means a lower premium but more costs you carry yourself. Here is how to work out what is worth it for you.
AskGeorge3 September 2026, 3 min read
The deductible (Franchise) is the amount you pay yourself each year before your health insurer starts to cover costs. The higher the deductible, the lower the premium.
The deductibles available for adults
- CHF 300 (the standard deductible)
- CHF 500, 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000
- CHF 2,500 (the highest deductible)
For children there are deductibles from CHF 0 to CHF 600.
The retention comes on top
Above the deductible you pay 10 per cent of the costs yourself, up to CHF 700 a year. For children the maximum is CHF 350. In hospital there is an additional CHF 15 per day. Children and young adults in education do not pay that contribution.
The most you pay yourself
With the CHF 300 deductible it is at most CHF 1,000 a year. With the CHF 2,500 deductible it is at most CHF 3,200, but the premium is considerably lower.
A simple rule of thumb
If your health costs are below roughly CHF 2,000 a year, the highest deductible is usually cheaper. If you see a doctor often or need regular medication, the lowest deductible is often better. The exact tipping point depends on your premiums.
Put the money you save on premiums aside. Then even an expensive year is no problem.
Last updated September 2026. This article does not replace personal advice. The terms of your insurer apply.
