Recent immigration of German physicians to Switzerland

German physician’s immigration to Switzerland increased since the ratification of the Agreement on the free movement of persons (FMP) between Switzerland and the EU in 2002.
Since little is known about this migration, our paper raises the question “What are the causes and consequences of the recent immigration of German physicians to Switzerland?” First, we evaluate the main causes of their migration. Second, we analyze the phenomenon’s extent. Particularly, the impact on the age and gender structure of the physician’s population is evaluated. Finally, the consequences, in terms of dependency of the health system on German and foreign physicians as well as integration issues, are shown.
Results show that on the macro-level the Swiss demand for foreign physicians and the absence of geographical, linguistic and legal barriers trigger the German physician’s immigration to Switzerland. On the micro-level, several push and pull factors are divisive.
Between 2002 and 2009, German physicians contributed to the Swiss practicing physician’s population not only in terms of numbers but also in terms of lower mean age and higher proportions of full-time workers.
These contributions are crucial to the good functioning of the Swiss health system by reason of insufficient “internal” medical training and demographic aspects.