Liechtenstein Health Insurance

The Principality of Liechtenstein is located in Europe between Austria and Switzerland. The doubly landlocked (landlocked country surrounded solely by other landlocked countries) is one of the smallest countries in the world, but boasts the second highest GDP per capita in the world at USD134,045 in nominal terms. Its low corporate tax rate draws global investment – in fact Liechtenstain has more companies than it has citizens, with its population of 36,000. The country’s scenic location in the Alps makes it an attractive tourist destination as well. Although the official language of Liechtenstein is German, the most widely spoken native tongue is the Alemannic dialect. Liechtenstein also boasts some of the highest quality of life indicators in the world.

Interestingly, Liechtenstein is not a member of the World Health Organisation, so comparative global measures of health care may be difficult to find. But average life expectancy is 80.3 years (76.7 years for males and 83.8 years for females), and communicable diseases are extremely rare. Most health care issues in Liechtenstein arise from “diseases of affluence” such as cancer, diabetes and heart attacks which are common to more developed countries. Liechtenstein health insurance in the private sector is available, although there is a comprehensive state-operated system.

Liechtenstein Health Insurance and Health Care System

Liechtenstein’s public health care system is funded by taxpayer contributions, although visiting and expatriate nationals from the European Economic Area may also be entitled to care in state operated hospitals.

In the state-run system, patients are charged a standard fee of CHF67 per visit to a general practitioner, and a referral is required for visiting a specialist. Children and old age pensioners are charged half price. A similar fee structure is in place for visits to Liechtenstein’s only hospital. Prescription medications are also covered under the Liechtenstein state-run health care scheme. The state does not provide for dental care; this must be paid for out of pocket or via private dedicated Liechtenstein health insurance. Ambulance fees will be reimbursed up to CHF500 by the state-run system, and, air ambulance fees are covered up to CHF1,000 (although costs for alpine rescues will often exceed this significantly, hence an international health care plan with an air evacuation rider is strongly recommended, particularly for those planning to engage in Alpine sports or exploration.

Liechtenstein Health Insurance and Common Tourist & Expatriate Health Problems

Many visitors to Liechtenstein come from lower altitudes and it takes time to get acclimated to the lower oxygen content of the atmosphere in the country. Many visitors make arrangements for oxygen therapy with the National Health Office in the capital, Vaduz, before arriving in Liechtenstein to assure a smooth transition. The US-based Centre for Disease Control recommends updating routine immunisations, including those against hepatitis, four to six weeks before departing for Liechtenstein. Travellers who plan on spelunking and expecting to encounter bats may consider rabies vaccination too. Although Liechtenstein’s health care is among the best in the world, travellers may wish to bring prescription medications from home, as availability of specific drugs may vary.

Although mild oxygen deprivation may be a one of the most serious traveller’s complaint when visiting Liechtenstein, more common aliments include diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, which can trouble tourists everywhere. A course of over the counter medication should be sufficient to treat acute cases, but persistent symptoms may require a visit to a physician. Traffic accidents are also a major health issue. Liechtenstein’s traffic drives on the right and navigating winding Alpine roads can be extremely perilous. Also, Liechtenstein’s famed Alpine sports can lead to serious injury, particularly for those who do not train on a regular basis. Note that while Liechtenstein health insurance in the state run public system can cover the cost of air evacuation up to CHF1,000, as mentioned above the cost of rescue can far exceed this.

Liechtenstein Health Insurance & International Health Care Plans

Although Liechtenstein’s quality of health care is second to none and its generous public health care system applies to visitors and expatriates, there are a few gaps in the system. Specialist care in the public system requires a doctor’s referral. Dental care requires up front payment or proof of private insurance. Costs of surgery and terminal care may not be entirely covered by the state-run insurance system, or may be subject to waiting lists. Emergency air rescue and evacuation costs may also not be entirely covered. To ensure that you receive all the coverage you need, an international health care plan is strongly recommended.

However, today’s market is full of several different international health care plans to choose from and selecting the best option for you, your family, your company or your tour group can be daunting. Fortunately, the experienced team of advisors at Expat Medical Insurance are here to assist with your international health insurance questions. With a range of plans on offer including alternative, dental, maternal and even emergency evacuation, Expat Medical Insurance can suggest the best plan for you. Our representatives are available 24 hours per day. Contact Expat Medical Insurance today for further information.