Health Insurance in Liechtenstein, Europe

Information expatriation

Capital City: Vaduz
Total area: 160 km2
Population: 35,322 (2007)
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +423 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikepedia Liechtenstein

Health Product: Travel Insurance and Health insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk:  World Health Map
BLOG:  Expat Health insurance Information

Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:

·      Liechtenstein has a universal healthcare system that is similar to those of neighboring Switzerland and Austria.

·      It is based on compulsory health insurance, where all residents must purchase coverage from a handful of private insurers.

·      The insurance pays for the majority of medical costs, including doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription drugs, and dental care.

·      Patients pay deductibles and co-pays out-of-pocket based on the services and insurance plan chosen.

·      Care is provided through general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, pharmacies and other facilities.

·      The government sets insurance premiums and reimbursement rates to ensure coverage is affordable.

·      Standards of care are high thanks to close partnerships with larger Swiss and Austrian hospital systems.

·      Liechtenstein spends over 10% of its GDP on healthcare, resulting in excellent access and medical infrastructure for its population.

Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:

·      Purchase mandatory basic health insurance through one of the approved private insurers.

·      Consider supplemental insurance plans as basic options may have higher deductibles/co-pays.

·      Register with a primary care physician/medical home as point of regular/preventive care access.

·      Understand insurance policies thoroughly, including covered vs non-covered services and procedures.

·      Bring an adequate supply of any maintenance prescription medications.

·      Quality is high nationwide but waits can occur for specialized services - plan accordingly.

·      German is primarily spoken but many medical staff also speak English. Learning basic terms is helpful.

·      Premiums are relatively affordable thanks to government price controls, but unexpected costs are still possible.