Switzerland Updates Application Process for Outpatient Tariff Development

On 22 October 2026, OAAT AG, the organization responsible for developing and maintaining Switzerland's outpatient reimbursement system, announced changes to the annual tariff revision process.

The system comprises two components: the fee-for-service TARDOC tariff structure and the outpatient flat-rate tariff structure. Both are subject to annual revisions, which may include the introduction of new tariff positions, modification or deletion of existing positions, changes to outpatient flat-rate grouping logic and editorial corrections.

The announced changes focus on two areas: prioritization of tariff development proposals and access to the application platform.

Introduction of formal application prioritization criteria

Following a high volume of applications during the 2026 submission cycle, exceeding available processing resources, the OAAT AG Board of Directors approved formal criteria for prioritizing proposals. Applications for Tariff Version 2028 will be assessed based on their importance, expected impact volume, and technical feasibility.

Priority will be given to proposals that:

• Directly affect the security of healthcare provision;
• Address regulatory requirements;
• Support defined tariff development priorities.

Applications that conflict with established tariffing principles, fail to meet minimum formal requirements or concern matters already covered by existing tariff structures will be rejected. Proposals requiring further conceptual development or additional data analysis may be deferred.

Expanded access to the application platform

Previously, applications for tariff development could only be formally submitted through OAAT AG's shareholder organizations: FMH, H+, GDK, MTK and prio.swiss.

Beginning with the next revision cycle in early 2027, members of shareholder organizations will be able to prepare and submit applications directly through the Applix online platform.

However, the relevant tariff partners will continue to review applications before forwarding them to OAAT AG for further processing. For FMH members, the existing application procedure remains unchanged.

The next revision cycle, covering Tariff Version 2029, will follow this schedule:

• February 1,  2027: Application preparation opens in Applix;
• March 1, 2027: Formal application submission opens;
• April 30, 2027: Application submission deadline.

What does it mean for the industry?

The changes introduce a more structured prioritization process for outpatient tariff development in Switzerland, potentially affecting how proposals for new or revised tariff positions are considered. While expanded platform access may simplify application preparation for eligible stakeholders, proposals will remain subject to tariff partner review and OAAT AG's prioritization criteria.

Medical device manufacturers seeking changes to outpatient reimbursement arrangements should assess how the new criteria may affect proposals relevant to their technologies. In particular, manufacturers should consider the clinical and regulatory relevance, expected impact and technical feasibility of potential tariff changes, and coordinate with the appropriate tariff partners to understand submission requirements and timelines for the 2029 tariff revision cycle.

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