Maximum protection through supplementary accident insurance
PUBLIREPORTAGE It happens quickly: a fall from a bicycle or a splinter in the eye from welding. The consequences of an accident can be serious for the person affected, their environment and the employer.
The Accident Insurance Act (UVG) stipulates that all employees in Switzerland are compulsorily insured against accidents and occupational illnesses by their employer. Anyone who works at least eight hours a week for the same company is also insured against non-occupational accidents (NBU). The aim of the insurance is to provide employees and their dependents with financial security following an accident in the event of disability or death.
Cost allocation of premiums and insurance benefits
The employer shall pay the premiums for occupational accidents and occupational illnesses. For non-occupational accidents, the premiums are borne by the employee. The maximum amount of insured annual earnings in mandatory accident insurance is 148,200 Swiss francs (valid since January 1, 2016).
Choice of accident insurance
Industries with an increased risk of accidents are required by law to be insured with the Swiss Accident Insurance (Suva). Unemployed persons are always insured through Suva.
Companies that are not subject to Suva can take out insurance with an approved insurer of their choice. The same applies to self-employed persons resident in Switzerland.
Supplementary accident insurance covers additional risks
Compulsory accident insurance provides adequate protection for most employees in Switzerland. Gaps can be covered by voluntary supplementary accident insurance (UVG-Z):
- Daily allowance up to 100% of salary as well as insurance of wages exceeding the UVG wage limit of 148,200 francs per year
- Medical expenses: stay in semi-private or private ward
- Long-term loss of earnings with additional pensions or compensation
- Gross negligence waiver for reductions
- Endowment insurance in the event of accidental disability or accidental death: In the event of disability or death, the insured capital is paid out.
Helsana regularly adapts supplementary insurance. Two examples show the possibilities of insurance coverage for employees:
In the case of medical costs abroad, the mandatory accident insurance only covers twice the amount for treatment in Switzerland. An emergency operation due to a broken collarbone during a beach vacation in Cyprus can quickly cost more than double the amount covered by the mandatory accident insurance. The additional costs are borne by the supplementary insurance.
A new feature is the survivor's pension for life partners. As long as joint dependent children live in the same household, Helsana pays a survivor's pension amounting to a maximum of 40% of the insured salary. Without children, a one-time lump-sum settlement is paid.
"Accidents happen. With us, companies can choose comprehensive protection for their employees and their dependents, which doesn't have to stop at the mandatory accident insurance."
Lui Maksimovic, Head of Offer Management UG
More information: www.helsana.ch
