This Friday, the Confederation indicates that the health insurance index (IPAM) rose 5.9% in 2024 compared to the previous year. Thus the IPAM, which makes possible the impact of price evolution on the growth of disposable income, reached a level of 213.9 points (base 1999 = 100). Based on prudent calculations, the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) concludes that “the increase in prices recorded in 2024 has reduced the growth of average disposable income by 0.5 points”.
The IPAM, however, shows how there is an increase in the prices of compulsory health insurance, as well as supplementary ones. If we took into account only the prices for basic insurance, which increased by 8.1% in 2024, the index would rise to 255.9 points (base 1999 = 100). In fact, component payments fell by 1.1% in 2024 compared to the previous year. And, in general, they have always been stable. For supplemental insurance as a whole, the index currently stands at 128.1 (1999 base = 100).
The OFS also points out that price increases are a burden on the budgets of private households, just like those in taxes or other insurance contributions. And to measure this effect it is based on disposable income, which corresponds to income (salary, interest, annuities, repayments and reductions in insurance premiums and income other inputs) less transfers (eg taxes, contributions to social insurance and other insurance). . In other words, this is the “amount available for consumption and savings”, according to the OFS.
2024-11-23 13:20:00
#weight #bonuses #Swiss #wallets
Given the FSO’s findings on the impact of the IPAM increase on disposable income, what specific policy recommendations could be considered to mitigate the financial burden on Swiss households, particularly those with limited resources?
## World Today News Podcast: Feeling the Pinch? Deconstructing the 2024 Health Insurance Index
**Welcome back to World Today News. Today, we dive into the latest figures from the Confederation regarding the rising cost of health insurance and its impact on Swiss wallets. Joining me are two esteemed experts: Dr. Emily Ritter, an economist specializing in healthcare costs, and Mr. Peter Muller, President of the Swiss Association for Patient Rights. Welcome to both of you.**
**Dr. Ritter, Dr. Muller:** Thank you for having us.
**Section 1: Understanding the IPAM**
Let’s start with the basics. Dr. Ritter, can you explain what the Health Insurance Index (IPAM) is and what its 5.9% increase signifies for Swiss citizens?
* **Follow-up Questions:**
* This rise is higher than average inflation. What factors contribute to this specifically within the healthcare sector?
* How does the IPAM difference between basic insurance (8.1%) and supplementary insurance (down 1.1%) reflect the choices Swiss people make regarding their healthcare coverage?
**Section 2: Impact on Disposable Income**
Mr. Muller, the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) states that the IPAM increase reduced the growth of average disposable income by 0.5 points. Can you elaborate on the real-life implications of this reduction for Swiss families?
* **Follow-up Questions:**
* Do you see a correlation between these increased costs and potential shifts in healthcare choices, such as delaying treatments or opting out of supplementary insurance?
* What measures can individuals take to mitigate the impact of rising health insurance costs on their budgets?
**Section 3: Broader Perspective: Taxes and Other Expenses**
The FSO emphasizes that price increases, like those in health insurance, impact household budgets alongside taxes and other costs. Dr. Ritter, how does the Swiss social security system compare to other developed countries in managing these competing financial pressures?
* **Follow-up Questions:**
* What lessons can be learned from other countries in terms of balancing healthcare affordability with quality of care?
* Do you foresee potential policy changes in Switzerland to address the sustainability of the current healthcare financing model?
**Section 4: Looking Ahead**
I’d like to open this discussion to both of you. What are your primary concerns regarding the future of healthcare costs in Switzerland? What steps can be taken collaboratively by individuals, policymakers, and healthcare providers to ensure that quality healthcare remains accessible and affordable for all?
**Closing:**
Thank you both for your insightful contributions today. This is clearly a vital issue with complex challenges and varied perspectives. We hope this discussion sheds light on the intricacies of the Swiss healthcare landscape and encourages ongoing dialog about finding sustainable solutions for the future.
