13 September 2024 – The Federal Council was informed about a study conducted by the Swiss Health Observatory (Schweizerischerisches Gesundheitsobservatorium, Obsan) regarding the introduction of the tariff system for inpatient psychiatric care (TARPSY). The study assessed the impact of the flat-rate tariff structure, introduced in 2018, on cost development, access to care, and the quality of inpatient psychiatric services. TARPSY, which regulates the reimbursement of psychiatric services through fixed-rate payments, has resulted in subdued cost growth. Although base rates and average lengths of stay have generally decreased, the severity of cases and the number of hospitalizations have risen, which can be ascribed to factors such as the destigmatization of mental health issues and broader crises (e.g., COVID-19, geopolitical tensions, and climate change).

The study indicates that the quality of care has remained stable since the introduction of TARPSY, despite an observed increase in the use of restrictive measures and psychotropic medicinal products. Access to psychiatric care remains strained in several regions due to a shortage of available beds, although this issue is unrelated to the tariff structure. However, the new tariff system has improved transparency regarding the services provided.

For more information, see here.