What Should I Do If I Disagree With a Diagnosis or Treatment?

Step 1: Talk to your doctor directly

The first step is always a direct conversation. Many disagreements arise from miscommunication or insufficient explanation. Ask your doctor to:

• Explain the diagnosis in plain language
• Describe the evidence supporting the diagnosis
• Outline all available treatment options — including doing nothing
• Explain the risks and benefits of each option
• Clarify why they recommend a specific treatment

You are entitled to this information. If your doctor dismisses your questions or refuses to explain, that itself is a problem worth escalating.

Step 2: Seek a second opinion

You have the legal right to a second opinion from another doctor. KVG covers second opinion consultations like any other specialist visit (Franchise + Selbstbehalt apply). Ask your GP for a referral, or self-refer if your insurance model allows it.

Request a copy of your complete medical records (Patientendossier) from your first doctor. No doctor can refuse to hand over your records — they belong to you under Swiss law.

Step 3: Switch doctors if needed

If you have lost trust in your doctor, you can switch:

• Standard model: Switch freely to any doctor at any time
• Hausarzt model: You can usually switch your designated GP once per calendar year, or more often if you move or have a justified reason
• HMO model: You can switch within the HMO network or change models at the next renewal period

Step 4: Contact the patient ombudsman

Every canton has a Patientenombudsperson (ombudsman des patients) who provides:

• Free, confidential advice on patient rights
• Mediation between patients and healthcare providers
• Help understanding medical decisions and documentation
• Guidance on formal complaint procedures

The ombudsman is neutral and independent. They do not take sides but help ensure your rights are respected. This service is free in every canton.

Step 5: File a formal complaint

For serious concerns — negligence, errors, or professional misconduct — you have several options:

• Cantonal health directorate (Gesundheitsdirektion): The supervisory authority for healthcare providers in your canton. They can investigate and sanction doctors
• FMH mediation office: The Swiss Medical Association offers a mediation service for disputes between patients and doctors
• Civil court: For medical malpractice claims seeking compensation. Consider consulting a lawyer specializing in medical law (Medizinrecht)

Your right to refuse treatment

You can refuse any treatment at any time, even if your doctor strongly recommends it. This includes:

• Medications
• Surgery
• Diagnostic procedures
• Hospital admission

Important: If you refuse a recommended treatment, ask your doctor to document your refusal and the information you were given. This protects both you and the doctor. Your refusal cannot be used against you in future insurance claims.

Informed consent is mandatory

Swiss law (and medical ethics) requires that you give informed consent before any medical procedure. This means your doctor must explain:

• What the procedure involves
• Why it is recommended
• What the risks are
• What alternatives exist
• What happens if you do nothing

If a procedure was performed without your informed consent, this may constitute a violation of your personal rights and potentially medical malpractice.