The tariff navigator in physiotherapy: Understanding and applying KVG tariffs with ease

If you’re working as a physiotherapist in Switzerland, you know that billing for physiotherapy services can be complicated. This is mainly due to the various applicable tariff systems – especially those governed by the Federal Health Insurance Act (KVG), as well as accident insurance (UV), military insurance (MV), and disability insurance (IV).

A solid understanding of these tariffs is essential for correct and legally compliant billing. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know – including practical examples of how to apply these tariffs in everyday physiotherapy practice.

 

What physiotherapy services are billable under KVG (Tariff Code 312)?

Under KVG, physiotherapy services are only reimbursable if they are prescribed by a physician and carried out by a physiotherapist recognized under KVG.

The KVG tariff structure is primarily based on flat-rate fees per session. The most important tariff items are:

 

• 7301 – Flat rate per session for general physiotherapy: For standard treatments without special complexity. Includes assessment, therapeutic measures, counseling, and instruction.
• 7311 – Flat rate per session for complex physiotherapy: For patients with neurological disorders, severe respiratory diseases, or children up to 6 years old.
• 7330 – Flat rate for group therapy (2 to 5 patients): For collective therapy sessions with similar conditions.

 

In addition, surcharges may apply, such as:

 

• 7350 – First treatment supplement: Covers the additional time required for the initial assessment.

 

Example: A patient with chronic back pain receives general physiotherapy (tariff 7301). With a point value of CHF 1.00 (e.g., in the canton of Geneva), the session costs CHF 48 (48 points x CHF 1.00).

 

You can find more on point values and tariff structure in our article on the basics of the Swiss physiotherapy tariff system.

 

Billable services under UV/MV/IV (Tariff Code 311)

What you need to know about UV/MV/IV tariffs in physiotherapy

Accident insurance (UV), military insurance (MV), and disability insurance (IV) – grouped under tariff code 311 – cover physiotherapy services directly related to an accident, disability, or military service.

These services are similar to those under KVG but differ in terms of reimbursement conditions, tariff structure, and billing procedures.

 

The point value is uniformly CHF 1.00 for all services – both outpatient and inpatient – unlike KVG, where it can vary by canton.

 

New UVG/MV/IV tariff agreement: What changes from July 1, 2025?

As of July 1, 2025, a new tariff structure for physiotherapy services under UVG/MV/IV will come into effect. Key changes include:

 

• Introduction of minimum session durations,
• Clearer distinctions for billing complex treatments.

 

Make sure you get familiar with these changes in good time and ensure your billing software is updated accordingly!

 

7 common billing mistakes in physiotherapy (and how to avoid them)

 

1. Incomplete medical prescriptionPrescriptions must include a diagnosis, treatment goals, and planned duration.
2. Incorrect billing of travel allowances in nursing homesTravel costs may only be billed if the treatment is specifically prescribed for home care. The prescription must clearly state “home treatment”.
3. Misuse of tariff 7311 (complex treatment)This can only be used for medically complex cases like severe neurological conditions – the documentation must clearly support this.
4. Incorrect billing for materials (MiGeL/LiMA or tariff 7361)Materials may only be billed if listed in the official MiGeL (List of Aids and Devices).
5. Violation of the EAE principle (Effectiveness, Appropriateness, Efficiency)Each treatment must meet all three criteria to be reimbursable.
6. Duplicate prescriptionsIf there are two prescriptions for the same indication, check for overlaps or additions. If unsure, consult the health insurer.
7. Poor documentation as a billing riskThorough documentation is essential to avoid rejections or inquiries from insurers. Also consider participating in LeDa data collections by Physioswiss – these are crucial for tariff negotiations and billing security.

 

Make your life easier: Use automated billing solutions

With a digital billing solution, you can save time, avoid errors, and always stay up to date:

 

• Automatic tariff updates: Your billing is always based on the latest tariffs.
• Fewer mistakes: Built-in validation tools reduce billing errors.
• Less admin, more patient care: Focus on what matters most – your patients.

 

With the right tools and knowledge, you’re well equipped for physiotherapy billing – whether under KVG or UVG/MV/IV. If you have more questions, feel free to check out our dedicated FAQ for physiotherapists ;)