Innovative medical technology in Switzerland

Cutting-edge treatments using medical and chemical technology as well as robotics are a key draw for international patients visiting Switzerland for medical treatment. Switzerland offers this service in the knowledge that health technologies are essential for a functioning healthcare system. Medical equipment in particular is crucial for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases and for patient rehabilitation. Dr Daniel Christen, Medical Director of Privatklinik Bethanien, is convinced of this: “Our clinic has a first-class infrastructure. Renowned specialists work closely together to deliver cutting-edge medical care that meets all the patient’s needs.”

Top performer in international comparisons
Switzerland performs excellently in international comparisons. It ranks second with respect to the number of available MRI machines, just behind Japan. This is according to a 2019 study by the OECD, a global organisation of 37 member countries. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging process used to show the body’s inner structures. It helps doctors to diagnose and monitor diseases. For international patients, the high availability of state-of-the-art technology means shorter treatment times. This ensures a reliably short stay in Switzerland, with no unnecessary delays due to long waiting times for investigations.

Robotic assisted surgery
In Swiss hospitals, medical experts work with engineers to develop state-of-the-art medical technology. This cooperation between researchers and medical practitioners allows them to create effective technologies with actual day-to-day medical applications. Minimally invasive surgeries, hybrid operating theatres or the use of the da Vinci robotic surgical system are a given for patients in Switzerland. The Clinique Générale-Beaulieu in Western Switzerland, an establishment that focuses on technological progress, has for the last 15 years generally performed prostatectomies via robotic assisted surgery. Switzerland is easily at the forefront in terms of quality and medical technology.    

Digital aftercare
New technologies also offer a host of advantages when it comes to aftercare, with telemedicine allowing medical data to be shared throughout the world without any problems. Patients who have travelled to Switzerland for treatment can therefore receive digital aftercare in their home country. This makes Switzerland a particularly attractive destination for medical treatment. “We provide preventive medicine in a renowned healthcare establishment with experienced specialists, state-of-the-art technology and personalised care geared to the specific needs of each patient,” explains Dr Marco Toderi, a surgical specialist at the Clinica Sant’Anna.

Text: Dr Kathrin Zimmermann