Post-COVID-19 Condition in Swiss Healthcare: Disparities in Access, Delays in Care, and Patient Burden.

Background

Post-COVID-19 Condition (PCC) causes persistent multisystem symptoms, reduced quality of life, and high healthcare needs. Data on patient experiences in Switzerland are scarce.

Objective

To assess healthcare access, treatment pathways, waiting times, and insurance-related burden among individuals with PCC in Switzerland.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide anonymous online survey between July and October 2025. Adults living in Switzerland with symptoms persisting ≥12 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection were eligible. Recruitment was conducted through support groups, social media, and specialized PCC consultations at several Swiss hospitals. The multilingual questionnaire covered demographics, symptoms, healthcare utilization, treatment experiences, and insurance issues.

Results

A total of 333 individuals participated (81.7% women; mean age 45.8 years). The most frequent symptoms were fatigue (98.5%), brain fog (92.5%), post-exertional malaise (91.0%), sleep disturbances (82.3%), and musculoskeletal pain (80.8%). Only 12.6% reported early and adequate medical support, whereas 45.0% had to actively seek care themselves and 24.6% had received no support. General practitioners were the most frequently consulted providers (77.5%), followed by specialized PCC clinics (39.0%). Waiting times were prolonged: 32.1% waited 4-6 months, 32.4% >6 months and 10.8% reported no available consultation service. Satisfaction with care was modest (3.02/5). Difficulties with social insurance were reported by 42.6%, including missing benefits, lack of recognition, and prolonged procedures.

Conclusions

Individuals with PCC in Switzerland face major barriers to timely and coordinated care. Strengthening primary care competencies, expanding multidisciplinary services, and implementing structured patient-centered pathways are urgently needed to improve outcomes and reduce long-term disability.