How can the terrible healthcare cost situation be resolved?

Marcel Napierala, are you also annoyed by the latest increases in premiums?
No. It was to be expected, and premiums will rise again next year too. I have an alternative insurance model and my premiums will go up by 4.5%. But I'm not going to switch health insurer because I'm satisfied with my current model.

But these cost increases are a real issue aren't they?
Yes, the premiums already put too much financial strain on many people. But it's important to distinguish between healthcare costs and healthcare prices – doctors and other service providers are not receiving more money for their services. But premiums are still going up.

Why is that?
We're getting older, the range of treatment options is increasing and demand for treatments and medicines is also rising. Basic insurance is now also covering some additional services, such as psychotherapy. Having a ­first-class health system is expensive and cost CHF 100 billion this year.

How can these horrendous healthcare costs be curbed?
All of the stakeholders in the healthcare system—health insurance companies, hospitals, insurers but also patients—must shoulder their share of responsibility so that costs rise more moderately. Here at Medbase, we aim to contribute by improving cost efficiency.

What exactly does this mean?
Not everyone needs to see a doctor immediately – a telephone consultation is often enough. Blood pressure readings can be taken in pharmacies. We favour an integrated care approach. If the healthcare system were an airport, Medbase would be Skyguide – we coordinate everything to ensure smooth operations. We rely on cooperation between doctors, pharmacists, nursing staff, physiotherapists and psychotherapists – supported by digital services. This avoids duplicate or unnecessary treatment.

What does it mean in terms of savings?
Savings can be measured very specifically with alternative insurance models. Last year, 260,000 people chose a Medbase model as their primary point of contact. This enabled them to save around CHF 800 per person compared to standard insurance. That amounts to over CHF 200 million in total.

What role do pharmacies play under this model? After all, Medbase has more than 50 in its portfolio.
Pharmacies can do so much more than just sell medicines­ – for example, they can administer vaccinations, take blood pressure readings and carry out organ monitoring procedures. We see pharmacies as a point of care, not just a point of sale. Our portfolio also includes “Zur Rose”, an online pharmacy and a wholesaler for medical practices.

Just how important is prevention?
Prevention is a massive factor. A prime example is dental hygiene, which is practised by 52% of the population. Bad teeth can have an adverse impact on the whole body.

What do you do to ensure you stay healthy?
I do a lot of sport. Having grown up in the mountains – I'm originally from Kandersteg – I often go walking or cycling in the mountains, and in winter I love cross-country skiing. I also take supplements, such as zinc, multivitamins and iron, because I need more energy. I hardly drink alcohol any more – I've become bored of it (he laughs).

How does Medbase align with Migros?
I decided to join forces with Migros in 2010 because we have the same values and a shared belief in the provision of basic services. Together, we aim to ensure everyone has access to healthcare services. Migros has enabled Medbase to develop. Today, health is one of Migros' four strategic­ business areas.

You have enjoyed strong growth in recent years to become one of the largest primary care organisations in Switzerland with almost 200 locations. Are you aiming for even more growth?
Achieving a certain size enables you to be innovative and adaptable. Quality takes top priority. This also includes treating our employees well. We'd like to continue our growth path, but at a reasonable rate.

Can you still find enough medical practitioners?
Yes, we're well positioned by industry standards. We offer good employment models with attractive working hours as well as part-time options. Buy the shortage of doctors is a challenge for us all.

If you were granted one wish to improve the Swiss healthcare system, what would it be?
I would wish that all of the stakeholders would put their own interests aside and take responsibility for the healthcare system. Politicians need to encourage small, effective measures. Family doctors, pharmacists and other outpatient professionals deserve greater consideration, as they provide the first point of access to primary healthcare.