Finding a family doctor

A family doctor is your first address when you are ill. Here you find out how to find a practice.

In Switzerland many people have a family doctor (Hausarzt, Hausärztin). This person knows your medical history. They are the first contact person when you are ill.

If necessary, they send you to a specialist.

Finding a practice

Look for a practice near you. Kanton Luzern recommends the doctor search of the FMH (association of doctors): doctorfmh.ch. Doctor networks in Luzern also have a search, for example mediX Luzern.

Call the practice. Ask: "Do you take new patients?" Some practices are full, then ask the next one.

Family doctor model (Hausarzt-Modell)

Many health insurances offer a family doctor model (Hausarzt-Modell). Then you always go to your family doctor first. Exception: emergency.

In return, the premium (monthly contribution) is lower. Ask your health insurance.

Appointment

For a visit you usually need an appointment. Call beforehand. Bring your health insurance card.

You cannot come? Cancel early. Otherwise the appointment may still cost money.

Language and interpreting

You understand little German? Say this when you register. Ask if someone speaks your language.

The Dolmetschdienst Zentralschweiz has interpreters for over 40 languages. The practice or the hospital can book them. Ask for it.

What you can do now

  1. Look for a practice near you on doctorfmh.ch.
  2. Call and ask for a place as a new patient.
  3. Ask your health insurance about the family doctor model.
  4. Do you need help with the search? FABIA advises you for free.
  5. Emergency? Call 144.

This app does not replace a doctor or counselling.

Kanton Luzern, Grüezi-Portal: Medizinische Versorgung (2026-09-21)

Find help