The support program for GP emergency care will continue this winter. With the backing of the canton, local municipalities, and Spital STS AG, SarinaMed AG is responsible for the proven project that received widespread approval last year. 

Base in Saanen
To alleviate pressure on local medical practices in the Obersimmental and Saanenland regions, external physicians and medical assistants will provide emergency care on weekends and public holidays at the SarinaMed group practice in Saanen. 

Local GPs remain vital to the initiative’s success, continuing to offer emergency services at their own practices. GP emergencies are coordinated via the MEDPHONE emergency call center, which directs inquiries to the appropriate medical practice. The practices on duty are also listed in local newspapers for direct contact. Patients must call either the MEDPHONE center or the practice on duty in advance to ensure the correct procedures are followed. 

Broad Support 
The project enjoys wide-ranging support. Financial backing comes from the canton and the municipalities within the Obersimmental-Saanenland district. Additionally, the Ärztliche Bezirksverein of Thun and its surrounding areas, which include the Obersimmental and Saanenland regions, assist in recruiting medical staff. 

The Gstaad International Health Group, which co-founded SarinaMed AG with the municipality of Saanen, plays a crucial role by providing administrative and project support. 

By pooling resources, this initiative ensures the continuation of emergency GP care throughout the winter season, offering essential relief to local medical practices during the high-demand period. 

Information on GP Emergency Services
The GP emergency service is designed for urgent medical incidents but not acute or life-threatening. These services address situations deemed pressing by patients, relatives, or third parties and that cannot be delayed. 

Practices on duty are listed in local newspapers and can be contacted directly. 

MEDPHONE, an initiative of the Ärztegesellschaft of the Canton of Bern, serves as the GP emergency call center. Upon receiving a call, MEDPHONE conducts an initial medical consultation and, if needed, performs triage to connect patients with the appropriate service, such as a family doctor, emergency doctor, hospital emergency room, or ambulance. 

Contact Information for MEDPHONE
Phone:    0900 57 67 47 (CHF 3.23/min) 
Prepaid: 0900 57 67 48 (CHF 3.50/min) 

This service is subject to a charge.