My appointments
Health tips

Teleconsultation in Switzerland: when to use it, when to avoid it

Seeing a doctor by video: which reasons are suitable, how to prepare and how it is billed. Our guide to teleconsultation in Switzerland.

Published on 15 October 2026

Teleconsultation lets you see a doctor by video, from home or the office. It saves time for many reasons for consulting, but it can't always replace a visit to the practice.

For which reasons?

Teleconsultation works well, for example, for:

  • discussing test results;
  • renewing a prescription as part of ongoing care;
  • monitoring treatment or a check-up after a first consultation;
  • advice on a simple symptom, to find out whether you need to visit the practice;
  • psychological follow-up, when the practitioner offers it.

When to avoid it?

Whenever a physical examination is needed (listening to the chest, palpation, examining a wound), or in the case of serious symptoms: chest pain, difficulty breathing, paralysis, loss of consciousness. In these situations, call 144.

How does it work on Synamed?

  • Filter your search on "By teleconsultation": you can consult anywhere in Switzerland.
  • Book a slot just as you would for an appointment at the practice.
  • You receive the link by email and text message; no installation is required.
  • On the day, you wait in the virtual waiting room until the doctor joins you.

How to prepare?

  • A quiet, well-lit and private place.
  • A stable connection; a computer or tablet rather than a phone if possible.
  • Your medicines and documents to hand.
  • An ID document and your insurance card.

And billing?

A teleconsultation is a medical service billed by the practice, just like a consultation. Coverage depends on your insurance: if in doubt, ask the practice when you book.

Read next

Find a practitioner near you

Psychologist in Switzerland →
Psychologist in GenevaPsychologist in LausannePsychologist in NyonPsychologist in MorgesPsychologist in FribourgPsychologist in Sion
Psychiatrist in Switzerland →
Psychiatrist in ZurichPsychiatrist in GenevaPsychiatrist in BaselPsychiatrist in BernPsychiatrist in LausannePsychiatrist in Winterthur
Dermatologist in Switzerland →
Dermatologist in ZurichDermatologist in GenevaDermatologist in BernDermatologist in BaselDermatologist in WinterthurDermatologist in St. Gallen

Find a doctor

Doctors and therapists across Switzerland, in person or by video.