These are two of the richest cantons in Switzerland, Geneva and Basel-City, which would benefit the most from the initiative to cap health premiums at 10% of household income, submitted to the popular vote on June 9.
According to the “SonntagsZeitung”, these cantons would in fact receive more subsidies from the Confederation, because the initiative obliges Berne to finance two thirds of the reductions in health premiums. According to estimates, the additional federal windfall would amount to at least 3.7 billion francs per year.
Basel-City can expect an increase of 1,000 francs per capita, while Geneva would receive 880 francs per capita. Next come the cantons of Neuchâtel, Ticino, Jura and Vaud. At the other end of the ranking, Appenzell Innerrhoden, Zug and Nidwalden are the big losers. It would therefore not be surprising if the inhabitants of these rural cantons wonder why they should accept the socialist initiative, warns the German-speaking Sunday newspaper.
Appenzell Innerrhoden, in particular, is known for its low health-related costs, as its citizens often only seek medical attention as a last resort. In addition, the township does not have a hospital. “It is impossible for the population of thrifty cantons in eastern and central Switzerland to cross-subsidize high-spending urban cantons,” says Thomas Aeschi, head of the SVP parliamentary group.
In Basel, in fact, expenses are very high. The density of doctors is also the highest in Switzerland. In terms of premium reductions, Basel-City, Geneva and Vaud are among the most generous cantons. Supporters of the initiative say the opposite. Sarah Wyss, national councilor (PS/BS) and member of the initiative committee, points out that many cantons have recently reduced their premium reductions. “Today, 18 cantons devote less money to reducing premiums than ten years ago,” she says.
