Global healthcare costs in comparison

Private healthcare is increasingly becoming a cost factor for global families and companies. The new SIP Health Cost Index 2025 shows for the first time on a data basis the extent to which prices for high-quality medical care vary internationally and where private healthcare costs are particularly high or surprisingly moderate.

For the first time, the SIP Health Cost Index 2025 systematically analyzes the actual costs of private healthcare in 50 relevant countries not on the basis of public expenditure, but on the basis of real premiums from international private health insurers (IPMI). Three model individuals, seven insurers and comparable benefit plans form the basis for a realistic picture of the actual costs of high-quality medical care for expats, frequent travelers and wealthy families.

“Few healthcare excellence hubs offer global families the combination of quality and accessibility they need,” explains SIP CEO Kevin Buerchler.

The most expensive healthcare markets in the world

The USA leads the ranking with an average of USD 17,969 per year, followed by Hong Kong (USD 16,175) and Singapore (USD 14,231). However, the sharp rise in costs in emerging Asian markets is particularly noteworthy. China, Thailand and Taiwan are already among the top 12. While straightforward visits to the doctor often remain inexpensive, international private clinics are driving up the cost of sophisticated treatments.

Europe: High spread – Switzerland in midfield

Europe shows major differences: the United Kingdom (5), Greece (11) and Spain (14) are far ahead, partly due to insurance taxes. Switzerland ranks 15th and is moderate in a global comparison, despite its reputation as a high-cost country. This is due to the compulsory insurance system, which dampens international IPMI prices.

Regional highlights

• Middle East: The United Arab Emirates (10) is establishing itself as a premium medical center driven by investment, medical tourism and state-of-the-art clinics.
• Latin America: Brazil (7) surprises as the most expensive market in the region.
• Africa and Latin America as a whole: Many countries, including Morocco (the cheapest country at USD 6,251), Nigeria and South Africa, remain comparatively affordable.

Significance for individuals, companies and insurers

The SIP Health Cost Index serves as a strategic tool for globally mobile families, companies with expats and insurers. It provides orientation for location selection, cost planning and the design of international healthcare services, especially in a world in which high-quality care is increasingly becoming a question of access and financial resources.