Espicom's in-depth medical device market reports are ideal for executives wanting to understand the key drivers in medical markets and have access to a wealth of statistical data. Each report opens with an outlook section that provides analysis of the market, 5-year market forecasts, national data projections, market outlook and key developments such as regulation, health facilities and government policy. The report also provides extensive background information, population trends, health status, health expenditure, organisation & administration, hospital services, medical personnel, healthcare development, market access information, trade data and essential industry contacts. Included with the report are 3 free quarterly updated outlook reports, enabling you to keep up to date with market developments for a year. Switzerland is a major medical device manufacturer which has, over a period of years, aligned its regulatory requirements to those of the European Union. Success in the Swiss market depends on meeting the high standards expected by the end-users who look for quality, durability, service, ease of operation and time-saving features. These requirements have led to Swiss manufacturers being at the forefront of medical device development.

The five university medical centres maintain an international reputation and are well equipped. Cantonal, municipal and private hospitals tend to follow the lead of university hospitals when buying equipment. Major equipment purchases by state hospitals must be approved by the cantonal or municipal authorities.

In practice, technology involving new forms of patient treatment, as well as requiring technical approval, needs to be approved by the health insurance funds in order to qualify for reimbursement. Such decisions are undertaken by a multi-disciplinary committee at federal level and become mandatory for all cantons, the fee for the new service being fixed by a supracantonal body.

The private sector, although only accounting for 15%-20% of the total medical market, can be an important end-user of expensive capital equipment, due to the absence of any purchasing restrictions on private facilities. For example, an estimated 60% of MRI units are to be found in the private sector.