An insight into working as a Doctor in Switzerland
“Having worked and trained in the NHS switching to a new system and retraining was demanding. Practicing medicine in Switzerland has however been a welcome challenge. Taking time with patients, listening to concerns, evaluating problems in a timely manner is extremely rewarding here. The networks I have built and the resources we have in Zurich are exceptional. This group was an unbelievable support in sometimes difficult moments and the interdisciplinary exchange is invaluable.”
Written by Dr. Scott Watson, Stockerdocs, Artzpraxis, Stockerstrasse 42, 8002 Zürich. www.stockerdocs.ch
An insight into working as a physiotherapist in Switzerland
“I enjoy working in a private practice in the heart of Zürich city, which offers a diverse patient population due to its multicultural population. Switzerland has a well-developed healthcare system, and patients enjoy easy and quick access. Physiotherapy is prescribed by doctors in Switzerland, and this was initially my biggest adjustment having not previously worked in such a system. This international network of practitioners adds an enormous value to my work as there is a mutual understanding and respect of one another’s professional skill set; and while the prescriptive process is required, with collaboration with the referring doctor we have the autonomy to guide the treatment plan. German to a B2 level along with your BSc is required to process professional recognition by the SwissRedcross, more information here: Redcross Switzerland. As I personally enjoy spending time outdoors, choosing to work in Switzerland provides a fantastic playground of a variety of sports all year round.”
Written by Áine Ní MhuirisPhysio and Co GMBH, Stockerstrasse 42, 8002 Zürich.
An insight into working as a podiatrist in Switzerland.
“Podiatry in Switzerland offers a significant opportunity for podiatrists qualified in the UK, thanks to our evidence-based degree qualification. Personally, I find great fulfillment in practicing here, where I can impart my knowledge and expertise to both patients and fellow healthcare professionals. My assessments and treatments are met with genuine appreciation from those I serve.
In my practice, approximately 70% of cases involve musculoskeletal injuries, which align with my specialized interest, while the remaining 30% pertain to general footcare. It is worth noting that Swiss podiatrists, known as Podologies, do not possess the same breadth of specialization as their UK counterparts, which limits their ability to conduct certain procedures. For example, they are not trained to use local anesthetics or prescribe antibiotics and therefore TNA/PNA’s are not possible.
For those considering self-employment in this field, proficiency in German up to B2 level is required, following which you can have your degree transcribed. Personally, I am registered with the Swiss Podologie Verband, which is the equivlent of the Royal College of Podiatry in the UK. Working in Switzerland is extremely rewarding and worth the registration journey.”
Written by Katriona Macklin MSK Podiatrist, Podiatric Management, Weinbergstrasse 53, 8802 Kilchberg. www.podiatricmanagment.com
An insight into working as a speech and language therapist in Switzerland
“An insight into working as a speech and language therapist/pathologist (SLT/SLP) in Zurich and the surrounding area. Being bilingual (2+ languages) is the norm around here. There are lots of opportunities to work with children and families, where English is either a home language or the academic language of one of the international schools. Due to the language-based nature of our work, recognition of qualifications within the German speaking Swiss system is incredibly challenging. This means that I work as a private-pay independent therapist. My aim is to achieve a C2 in German and to go for Swiss recognition. If you want to find out more about my journey, you’ll find me here - www.leonieroth.ch - and at the next meeting! Leonie Roth (MRCSLT).”
Written by Leonnie Roth www.leonieroth.ch
An insight into working as a dietician in Switzerland
“Depending on which country you received your qualification from, you will either need to show your certificates and detailed course overview, registered bodies and work experience or you will need to redo the degree here in Switzerland. This is done through the Red Cross. You will need to have passed German, French, or Italian to B2 level (TELC/GOETHE), but of course, in Zürich, German will be the most useful. To work as a self-employed dietitian who is recognized by the insurance companies you will need to have first completed two years of full-time work in Switzerland. As in any country, you can work acutely or in the community.
For the insurance to pay for your services the patient will need a doctor’s referral”
Written by Daniella Creme
An insight into working as an occupational therapist in Switzerland
As an occupational therapist specializing in hand and upper extremity pathology, I enjoy Switzerland's dynamic and innovative hand therapy and surgery community, marked by annual conferences and open communication between therapists and surgeons. Managing my practice in central Zürich, I cherish the diversity of patients in the city.”
Written by Sarah Edwald, City Handtherapie Stampfenbachstrasse 42, 8006 Zürich, Switzerland, www.city-handtherapie.ch