In Switzerland the pharmacy, marked by a green cross, is the first stop for minor ailments: pharmacists are highly trained, can advise on symptoms and supply many treatments, and will refer you to a doctor if needed. For emergencies, dial 144 for an ambulance or 112 for general help. Healthcare is excellent but costly, so arrive with suitable cover. Your AirportsTransfers.ch chauffeur can take you straight to your hotel if you are travelling unwell.
- Pharmacy sign: a green cross, often illuminated
- First port of call: pharmacists for minor illnesses, advice and many medicines
- Out of hours: a rota of on-duty pharmacies in each area
- Emergency numbers: 144 ambulance, 112 general emergency, 1414 air rescue
- Cover: travel insurance with medical cover; carry your policy details
How Swiss pharmacies work
Pharmacies are found on most shopping streets in Geneva and in every resort of any size. They are staffed by qualified pharmacists who are used to dealing with travellers and often speak several languages. You can describe your symptoms at the counter and receive advice, over-the-counter medicines or, for some conditions, treatment that might elsewhere require a doctor's visit.
Many common medicines such as painkillers, cold remedies and allergy tablets are sold only in pharmacies rather than supermarkets, and prices are higher than in some countries. Prescription medicines require a prescription, ideally from a Swiss doctor; prescriptions from abroad may not be accepted directly, so bring enough of your regular medication for the whole trip.
Evenings, weekends and holidays
Pharmacies keep normal shop hours, and in each area a rota ensures that at least one stays open or on call outside those hours. The on-duty pharmacy is usually listed on a notice in the window of the closed ones and online. In Geneva, a few pharmacies keep longer hours, including at or near the main railway station.
In ski resorts, pharmacies stock blister plasters, sun cream, lip protection and remedies for colds, which are among the most common needs of visitors. They can also point you to the local medical centre or doctor, many of whom are used to treating skiing injuries.
When you need a doctor
For conditions beyond a pharmacist's scope, options include walk-in medical centres in cities, permanences or emergency clinics, and doctors' practices in resorts. For serious problems, hospital emergency departments are available, and Geneva has a large university hospital. Be prepared to pay or provide insurance details, as visitors are often asked to settle bills and claim back later.
Keep the following in your phone and on paper:
- Your travel insurance policy number and assistance line
- Any European health insurance card you are entitled to
- A list of your medicines and allergies
- The address of your accommodation, for ambulance crews
Emergency numbers
In Switzerland, 144 calls an ambulance, 117 the police and 118 the fire service, while 112, the European emergency number, also works and connects you to help. For mountain and air rescue, 1414 reaches the Swiss air rescue service. If you cross into France or Italy during your stay, 112 still applies, so it is the one number worth remembering across the whole region. When calling, give your exact location, the nature of the problem and a phone number on which you can be reached, and stay on the line until told otherwise.
For less urgent medical questions outside opening hours, the on-duty pharmacy or a local medical helpline is more appropriate than an emergency line.
Health cover considerations
Swiss residents must have health insurance, and the system is largely private, which is one reason costs are high for visitors. European visitors may be able to use a European health insurance card for necessary treatment, but it does not cover everything, and mountain rescue is a notable gap. Travellers from elsewhere generally rely entirely on private travel insurance.
If you are skiing, make sure your policy covers winter sports and rescue. If you have a chronic condition, check that it is declared and covered, and carry a doctor's letter in case you need care.
Travelling comfortably from the airport
Book with AirportsTransfers.ch online and you will see the fixed price for your vehicle before paying by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. A chauffeur meets you in arrivals with a name sign, tracks your flight and waits if you are delayed, which is reassuring if you are travelling unwell or with someone who needs extra time. Child seats are provided on request and skis should be declared at booking. For special requirements, contact +41 78 346 56 77 by phone or WhatsApp, 24/7.
