FAQs about your rehabilitation in Switzerland.
Rehabilitation in another country raises several questions in terms of medical care, the organization and personal issues. Here you can find answers to common questions from international patients at VITREA: from arrival and stay to diagnosis and the conditions that we treat.
General questions about rehab stays at VITREA in Switzerland.
What is a rehab center and how is it different from hospital?
A rehab clinic specializes in the medical and therapeutic aftercare following acute illness or surgery. While hospitals primarily handle acute care, rehab clinics support patients to restore their physical, mental and social capabilities step by step.
How does rehabilitation work in Switzerland?
Following admission, an individual therapy plan is produced which combines medicine, nursing and specialist therapies. Patients benefit from close interdisciplinary cooperation and modern technologies. The aim is to restore independence and quality of life as quickly as possible.
How many treatments and treatment minutes are offered per day?
We offer a customized, intensive treatment program from Monday to Saturday. The number and duration of treatments is based on your medical diagnosis, your capacity, and the goals of your therapy.
After admission, your exact treatment plan will be determined with our interdisciplinary team to ensure the best-possible holistic treatment. Usually, there are 4 to 6 treatments from Monday to Friday and 2 to 3 on Saturdays.
What is the earliest possible admission date?
The earliest possible admission date depends on the department concerned and the status of your documentation (e.g. medical reports, insurance cost approval). Waiting times are usually between 7 and 10 days.
As soon as we have all the necessary documents, we will inform you of the earliest possible admission date.
What languages do the staff at the rehab center speak?
Our staff all speak German, French and English. In addition, there are several other languages spoken, like Croatian, Russian and Italian. We will clarify whether your language is represented among our specialist staff. Should this not be the case, we work with interpreters or translation devices, as required.
Are there leisure activities available in the area?
All of our centers are well located and offer many interesting excursions and wellness opportunities for patients and their relatives, depending on their state of health. The International Office will happily put together suitable excursions when you are here.
How do patients travel safely to Switzerland?
We support you to travel to our clinic safely and smoothly. Depending on where the patient lives and their health status, we can organize transport on request – such as by patient transport.
Please let us know as soon as possible about your travel wishes so we can find the best and safest solution for you.
I'm not sure if rehabilitation in Switzerland is the right choice for me. What should I do?
Please contact our international team and send us your medical records. Our specialists will review your case, provide an initial assessment and treatment recommendation, and give you a cost estimate—all with no obligation. We also offer free consultations to address your concerns and answer your questions.
Why do international patients choose rehabilitation in Switzerland?
Switzerland is internationally renowned for its high standards of medical care, its expertise, and its quality-oriented healthcare system. For rehabilitation patients, it offers more than just medical treatment: it provides an environment that promotes recovery and well-being.
Our rehabilitation clinics are nestled amid some of Switzerland’s most beautiful landscapes, often just a few steps away from lakes, mountains, and nature. This peaceful setting provides a welcome contrast to the intensive daily routine of rehabilitation.
While patients are undergoing treatment, their loved ones can explore Switzerland’s countless sights—from picturesque excursions to lakes and mountains to historic cities and cultural attractions. When a patient’s health and treatment plan allow, family outings can provide a refreshing change of pace and offer valuable time together outside the daily routine of rehabilitation.
With its excellent infrastructure, safety, and international accessibility, Switzerland offers an environment where patients can focus on their recovery and their families feel well supported throughout their stay.
How long does the admission process usually take?
Depending on the complexity of the case, patients typically receive a treatment recommendation and a quote within a few days. Clarifications with your insurance provider may take additional time to process. In order to assess your case and provide you with a well-founded quote, we need your most recent medical records.
Will anyone help me once I arrive in Switzerland?
Yes, we’ll be there for you from day one. Our International Office coordinates your stay and is available to assist you with any organizational or administrative questions. Once you arrive, our experienced team will provide you with personalized support.
How is VITREA in Switzerland different from rehabilitation clinics in other countries?
VITREA offers specialized Swiss rehabilitation medicine, highly personalized care, and comprehensive support for international patients. With 20 years of experience treating international rehabilitation patients, our team understands the medical, organizational, and personal challenges of receiving treatment abroad.
Our interdisciplinary specialists develop individualized rehabilitation programs for each patient, combining medical expertise, specialized therapies, and advanced rehabilitation technologies.
Our dedicated international team supports patients and their families throughout their entire stay—from the initial medical examination and travel planning to their stay and rehabilitation in Switzerland.
How do I know if rehabilitation in Switzerland is the right choice for me?
Our specialists review each case individually, taking into account medical reports, imaging studies, and the course of treatment. Before admission, we provide a personalized opinion stating whether rehabilitation is likely to improve recovery outcomes or not.
We are always happy to answer any questions you may have and will support you and your family in organizing your rehabilitation stay.
Relatives and accompanying persons
Can a relative accompany me at the clinic?
Families and children are very welcome. Staying overnight with the patient in their room is generally free of charge as we firmly believe that a familiar social environment supports recovery.
The only exceptions to this are severe medical cases for whom being accompanied is not possible due to medical or nursing reasons.
Please discuss your plans with us early on so we can arrange the appropriate accommodation.
Is there accommodation for relatives?
Yes, there are several accommodation options for relatives. Apartments are available nearby for an additional charge. We also work with hotels in the area and can negotiate accommodation at preferential rates.
Please contact us early on so we can support you with planning.
Can my relatives stay with me?
Relatives can stay overnight in your room for free. If you would like separate accommodation, the International Office can support you to find a suitable solution.
How can my family support me during my recovery?
Family involvement often plays an important role in the rehabilitation process. Visits and emotional support during your stay are encouraged. Depending on the clinic, family members may stay overnight in the patient’s room or be accommodated nearby. Our team will be happy to keep your family informed of your progress and, if you wish, include them in discussions with the treatment team. In addition, we prepare your family for the time after your stay by providing recommendations for continued care at home.
Costs and insurance
How much does a rehab stay cost?
Costs depend mainly on the severity of the condition and the individual’s needs. Additional expenses may be incurred for translators or transportation, for example.
We will provide transparent information at an early stage in the form of a written quote so you can accurately estimate the costs before treatment starts.
Will my insurance cover the costs of rehabilitation in Switzerland?
In many cases, health or accident insurance covers the costs of rehab when prescribed by a doctor. International patients should clarify the terms and conditions with their insurer. Our international team will happily support you to clarify cost approval with your insurer and take care of residence permits.
Are the costs for my rehabilitation stay covered by my insurance?
In our experience, many insurers will cover the costs of rehab, especially international and Germany private insurers – as long as it is prescribed by a doctor. The costs are partially or fully covered in this case. We will clarify the costs covered with your insurer free of charge.
Does my European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) cover the costs of the rehab?
No, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) usually does not cover any costs of a rehab stay. In most cases, a special cost agreement from your health insurance company is required for the cost of rehabilitation to be covered.
Can you give me an estimate before I make a decision?
Yes. After reviewing your medical records, our team will prepare a personalized treatment recommendation and a written quote. This will allow you and your family to make an informed decision before admission.
Why is rehabilitation in Switzerland more expensive than in some other countries?
Rehabilitation in Switzerland combines intensive, interdisciplinary therapy, specialized medical teams, state-of-the-art rehabilitation technologies, and personalized care. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual and often include several hours of therapy per day.
What is included in the costs of inpatient rehabilitation?
We operate on a transparent daily flat rate that covers essential services, including lodging, full board, personalized therapy programs, medications, care supplies, and support from our team. If additional services are needed, we will inform you in advance.
What happens if my insurance company rejects the request?
Many patients choose to pay for their rehabilitation out of pocket, while others look for alternative financing options. Our team would be happy to discuss the available options with you.
What factors influence the total cost?
The total cost depends on several factors, including:
- diagnosis and complexity
- intensity of treatment
- expected length of stay
- care needs
- accommodation preferences
- additional services.
Our rehab services
What does early neurological rehabilitation mean?
Neurological early rehabilitation starts straight after acute treatment in hospital when patients are still severely restricted. The aims are medical stabilization, first mobilization and avoiding further damage. This often includes weaning off of (partial) ventilation. This early phase lays the foundations for further rehab success.
What is geriatric rehabilitation and who is it suitable for?
Geriatric rehabilitation is aimed at older people after illness, accidents, or surgery. The aim is to improve mobility, independence, and everyday skills. A specialist team supports patients to actively participate in life again.
What is cardiac rehabilitation and when is it appropriate?
Cardiac rehabilitation helps after a heart attack, heart surgery or chronic heart disease. It combines movement therapy, nutrition, psychological support and medical care. This improves heart health and prevents relapses.
Which rehab helps for multiple sclerosis (MS)?
Different treatments are combined for MS: Physiotherapy strengthens mobility, occupational therapy supports everyday life, and speech therapy helps speech and swallowing impairments. In addition, robotics and innovative methods are used to alleviate specific symptoms.
How long is the recommended rehab duration for MS patients?
Our experience shows that 3 to 6 weeks inpatient rehabilitation is effective. We will happily put together a customized quote tailored to your personal situation and goals.
What are the treatment options for Parkinson’s symptoms?
Alongside medication, rehabilitation plays a central role. Physiotherapy improves mobility, occupational therapy supports everyday life, and speech therapy helps speech and swallowing problems. Special treatments such as LSVT BIG & LOUD as well as robotics complement the program.
How long is the recommended rehab duration for Parkinson’s patients?
Based on experience, inpatient programs between three and six weeks yield the best results. We will happily put together a personalized quote exactly tailored to your needs and goals.
What is the role of robotics therapy in rehabilitation?
Robotics therapy uses state-of-the-art equipment to guide and repeat movements in a targeted way. This allows patients with strokes, Parkinson’s or back injuries to make progress more quickly. The combination of precision, motivation and feedback makes the treatment especially effective.
Which therapies are used after a stroke?
Some of the most important therapies are physiotherapy for mobility, occupational therapy for everyday functions, and speech therapy for speech and swallowing. This is complemented by modern procedures such as robotics therapy and cognitive training programs. This provides individual support for recovery.
How long is the recommended rehab duration for patients after a stroke?
The optimal duration depends on how long ago the stroke occurred. For recent strokes, a stay of several weeks or months is usually recommended as long as progress is observed. If the stroke occurred longer ago, intensive programs of three to six weeks are appropriate. As a general rule: The earlier and more targeted rehabilitation starts, the better the chances of success.
How many hours of therapy can I expect per day?
The intensity of your treatment depends on your goals and your health status. We work with each patient to develop a treatment program that is as intensive as possible. The exact number of treatment sessions may vary from clinic to clinic.
Before your stay
Can you help me communicate with my insurance company?
Yes. Our International Team supports patients and their families throughout the entire approval process with their private health insurance provider and provides the necessary documentation.
What documents should I prepare before contacting you?
Ideally, patients should provide the following documents:
- current medical reports
- discharge summaries
- imaging test results
- lists of medications
- insurance information.
This will allow our specialists to assess the case more quickly.
What outcomes can realistically be expected?
Every patient is different. During an online medical consultation or upon your admission to the hospital, our specialists will discuss realistic goals and expected progress with you based on your diagnosis and medical history.
Don’t see your question? Contact us – we are happy to help.