Confidentiality in Swiss rehab clinics
Rehab in Switzerland is strictly confidential. Medical secrecy is protected by Article 321 of the Swiss Criminal Code. Health data is protected by the revised Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP). Many private clinics add practical measures such as confidentiality agreements, private residences and discreet transfers.
By the Switzerland Recovery editorial team · Updated · 5 min read
Medical secrecy under criminal law
Article 321 of the Swiss Criminal Code covers doctors, psychologists, nurses, pharmacists and their auxiliaries. Disclosing a secret confided to them in their profession can lead, on complaint, to up to three years' custody or a monetary penalty (Fedlex: Swiss Criminal Code Art. 321).
The duty continues after the professional stops practising (Fedlex: Swiss Criminal Code Art. 321).
Data protection law
The revised Federal Act on Data Protection came into force on 1 September 2023 (Fedlex: FADP). It classifies health data as sensitive personal data. Where consent is required, it must be given explicitly for sensitive data (Fedlex: FADP Art. 6).
Wilfully disclosing secret personal data learned in a profession can be punished, on complaint, with a fine of up to CHF 250,000 (Fedlex: FADP Art. 62).
“data relating to health, the private sphere or affiliation to a race or ethnicity”
Practical discretion
Many private clinics add practical measures on top of the law:
- Confidentiality agreements for all staff
- Private entrances and residences
- Discreet airport transfers
- Aliases for high-profile clients
- No group settings in one-client clinics
Our guide to luxury rehab vs standard rehab explains when a one-client setting is worth it.
When information can be shared
Disclosure is not punishable when you consent to it. It is also lawful with written permission from the supervisory authority (Fedlex: Swiss Criminal Code Art. 321). Federal and cantonal duties to report or testify remain reserved.
Ask the clinic in writing who will receive information about your stay, such as an insurer or a referring doctor. Our guide to the first 72 hours at a Swiss rehab clinic describes the consent paperwork at admission.
Related treatment pages
Frequently asked questions
Is my enquiry to you confidential?
Yes. We only share your details with a clinic or placement partner after you agree.
Can a Swiss clinic tell my employer that I am in treatment?
Not without your consent. Medical secrecy under the Swiss Criminal Code covers doctors, psychologists, nurses and their auxiliaries. Disclosure is lawful only with your consent, written permission from the supervisory authority or a legal reporting duty.
