Diagnostic Imaging in Switzerland

Diagnostic imaging, also known as medical imaging, describes a variety of techniques to look inside the body to diagnose the cause of an injury or illness, as well as to find any signs of a health condition. It is also used to see how well your body responds to treatment for an illness or fracture. 

Many diagnostic imaging tests are noninvasive and painless. Some tests use a small amount of radiation exposure. Some require you to remain still inside a machine for a long time, which may cause little discomfort. 

Other diagnostic tests involve the insertion of a small camera attached to a thin, long tube (often referred to as a “scope”) into your body. These types of diagnostic tests are invasive and require anesthesia.

Some of the most common types of diagnostic imaging tests are as follows:

• X-ray is among the most well-known diagnostic imaging tests. It generates images that allow your doctor to see if there is any damage or injury to the bones.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan, also known as “cat scan,” is a test that combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles. It is often used to quickly examine people who could have internal injuries. It can help doctors evaluate the brain, spine, abdomen, chest, and neck.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnet to obtain an image of the body instead of radiation. It is most commonly used to examine spinal cord and brain anomalies, joint abnormalities, and tumors.
• Ultrasound, also known as sonography, uses high-frequency waves to create images of the inside of the body. It is most commonly used to examine a fetus during pregnancy. However, it can also be used to examine a wide range of body parts, including the heart, joints, and bladder.
• Mammography is a type of x-ray image of the breast. It can be used to check for early breast cancer signs that cannot be felt through the use of a low-dose x-ray.
• A diagnostic biopsy is the main method doctors use to diagnose most types of cancer. It involves the removal of a piece of tissue or cell sample to be analyzed in a laboratory.

• Endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy involve the insertion of a thin, flexible scope with a video camera attached to its end through a passageway or bodily opening to look at the inside of a particular organ, such as the colon or the lungs.

How Long Should I Stay in Switzerland?

You can usually leave the hospital straight away after diagnostic imaging tests. However, it is advisable that you stay in Switzerland for 5 to 7 days to wait for the results. Once the results are ready, you will have to attend a follow-up appointment where your doctor explains the results and discuss the treatment plan, if needed.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Most diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound and CT scan, do not require any recovery time. However, you may need to take one or two days off work and avoid strenuous activities for several days after some types of diagnostic biopsy, endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy.

What Aftercare is Required?

There is usually no special aftercare or restrictions after diagnostic imaging tests. You may be advised to drink plenty of water immediately after, especially if contrast was used. If the procedure is invasive, your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to care for the wounds. 

What's the Success Rate?

Diagnostic imaging tests have high success and accuracy rates. The continuous improvement and advancement of diagnostic imaging technology have transformed healthcare, allowing for earlier diagnosis of many medical conditions, reduces the need for invasive processes. The side effects of diagnostic imaging tests are very minimal, such as slight discomfort, pain, swelling, and bruising.

Are there Alternatives?

There are no alternatives to diagnostic imaging. It is vital for the diagnosis of medical conditions, allowing your doctor to decide the best treatment or management plan.

Diagnostic Imaging in and around Switzerland

About Switzerland

Switzerland is a landlocked country located in Europe and is famous for its chocolate and clocks; this country offers its visitors beautiful landscapes, medieval towns, modern art, avant-garde culture, and Alpine tradition. From the Swiss Alps and the Jura Mountains to Renaissance-era allegorical statues and medieval architecture, Switzerland provides an unforgettable experience for everyone. Today, the country is popular with medical tourists who travel here for top quality elective surgery and dentistry. The healthcare system is world-renowned and beyond impressive, with highly qualified doctors and staff who work in ultra-modern hospitals and clinics. According to the WHO, Switzerland’s public health services system is one of the most effective in the world. A full range of advanced medicine and technology are available here, from heart surgery, orthopedics, neurosurgery, to oncology. 

Popular Cities and Regions in Switzerland

Most medical tourists travel to Bern, the de facto capital of Switzerland. Here, tourists can walk around the historic town center that is brimming with churches, cobblestone streets, medieval clock towers, and well-preserved sandstone homes. The main attractions in this city are Zentrum Paul Klee and Kunstmuseum. Besides Bern, Zürich is a famous destination for medical tourists. Set on the beautiful Zurich Lake, this city offers many amazing medical centers and tourist attractions. It’s a culturally vibrant city that is recognized as one of the most liveable cities in the world. Tourists are welcome to visit Fraumüster, explore Schweizerisches Landesmuseum, and admire art at Kunsthaus. Along with Bern and Zürich, Geneva is also popular. It has the world’s largest fountain, a historic city center, and spectacular views of Lake Geneva.

Transport in Switzerland

Zurich Airport is the main gateway to Switzerland. It serves regular scheduled and charter flights to and from numerous cities in Europe, North America, and Asia. Public transport in the country is comprehensive. Trains are comfortable and scenic, and buses take over where the rails run out. Taxis and Uber are available to travel inside cities.

Visas in Switzerland

As a part of the Schengen Agreement, Switzerland allows citizens of 62 countries, including Australia and the US, to stay in the country without a visa for up to 90 days. Nationals of most other countries are required to have a Schengen visa to enter the country. 

Weather in Switzerland

Winter (November – March) is cold and snowy, with an average temperature of 5 to 10°C in Zurich. It’s a popular time for tourists who want to ski. Spring (April – June) has warmer weather, although some areas still experience snowfall. Summer (July – August) brings perfect and warm weather, with an average temperature of 27°C. Autumn (September – October) is still warm but the days are becoming shorter.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). 1 CHF is equivalent to 1.04 USD.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs can be found easily and major credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are widely accepted. Tipping is not necessary. 
3. Local Language: Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Most of the population speaks excellent English, especially those in major cities. 
4. Local Culture and Religion: The predominant religion is Christianity, which has been present in the country since the Roman Era. The country guarantees full freedom of religion, and Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, as well as other religions are practiced by a small portion of the population. 
5. Public Holidays: Switzerland has several public holidays, including New Year’s Day, Berchtold's Day, Corpus Christi, Immaculate Conception Day, and Christmas Day.