Emergency: When do I call 144?

In case of danger to life, call 144. For smaller emergencies there are other ways. Here you see which.

Danger to life: Call 144

Call 144 in case of danger to life. For example: The person is not breathing. Severe chest pain. A lot of blood. Unconscious.

The control centre sends the ambulance or a helicopter. On the phone you say: Who are you? Where are you? What happened? Stay on the phone.

Ill, but no danger to life

You are ill, but there is no danger to life? Call your family doctor first.

At night or at the weekend the health hotline (Gesundheitsleitstelle) helps: 0800 041 041. It is free and always available. It tells you where to go.

At the Luzerner Kantonsspital there is an emergency practice (Notfallpraxis) for smaller emergencies. It is open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm. The emergency centre (Notfallzentrum) of the hospital is there for serious cases.

Costs

The emergency department at the hospital costs the same as a visit to the doctor. You pay the deductible (Franchise) and co-payment (Selbstbehalt).

The ambulance costs extra. The health insurance only pays half, maximum CHF 500 per year. For a rescue from danger to life, maximum CHF 5000 per year.

You pay the rest yourself. Therefore: Call 144 only in real danger. You have no money for the bill? Talk to the social counselling service (Sozialberatung) early.

What you can do now

  1. Save 144 and 0800 041 041 in your phone.
  2. Learn the three questions: Who? Where? What?
  3. Find a family doctor. They are there for small emergencies.
  4. Emergency? Call 144.

This app does not replace a doctor or counselling.

Luzerner Kantonsspital LUKS, Notfall (2026-09-21)

Find help