Preventing falls and other accidents now that winter is upon us

With the snow and the ice, pavements and road surfaces can resemble skating rinks, increasing the risk of slips and injuries. Winter sports are also a common source of accidents. At this time of year, the CERN infirmary sees more people coming in with musculoskeletal problems after a fall. Please click on the title for more detail.

What is the reimbursement rule for hospitalisation?

On a general ward in a public hospital, 100% of the costs will be reimbursed.

The costs of hospitalisation on a semi-private ward in an approved clinic or a public hospital will be covered in accordance with the General Rule.

In a non-approved clinic, 80% of the costs will be reimbursed, with no limit on the costs borne by the member (no FCA accumulation).

In all cases, the supplement for a private ward is borne by the member.

I have the choice between a private (single-bed) ward and a semi-private (two-bed) ward. If I choose a private ward, will the CHIS reimburse the price difference? 

The CHIS covers hospitalisation costs on a semi-private ward (room with two beds). The supplement for hospitalisation in a private ward is borne by the member.

If you choose a private ward, the hospital/clinic will be able to tell you the amount of the supplement.

What’s the difference between being hospitalised on a general ward, a semi-private ward and a private ward?

In Switzerland, the difference lies in the accommodation and the doctors who will take care of you.

On a general ward, you will stay in a room with several beds (between two and eight), depending on availability. You cannot choose your medical practitioners (surgeon, obstetrician, etc.). In the case of public hospitals, the CHIS reimburses 100% of the costs associated with a stay on a general ward.

What’s the difference between being hospitalised on a general ward, a semi-private ward and a private ward?

In Switzerland, the difference lies in the accommodation and the doctors who will take care of you.

On a general ward, you will stay in a room with several beds (between two and eight), depending on availability. You cannot choose your medical practitioners (surgeon, obstetrician, etc.). In the case of public hospitals, the CHIS reimburses 100% of the costs associated with a stay on a general ward.