Carmen’s story as a physio in Berikon
Anyone who decides to work as a physiotherapist in Switzerland embarks on a special adventure. Every year, dozens of healthcare professionals take this step through PhysioMatch, in search of more job satisfaction, a beautiful environment, and personal growth. This week we spoke with Carmen, who has been living and working in Switzerland for four months. She openly shares her biggest doubts, her most beautiful experiences, and what her life looks like now.
From the Netherlands to the Swiss mountains:
Who are you?
“I’m Carmen, 32 years old, originally from Brabant, The Netherlands. For me, the Netherlands felt ‘too flat,’ so I started traveling. I spent about 3.5 years on the road: among other things, working as a physio assistant in New Zealand, with breaks in the Netherlands. Recently I settled in Switzerland, where I work in Berikon. Every workday, I walk about 40 minutes uphill to my job, with views of the Alps!”
Adventure in Switzerland
What convinced you to take the leap?
“The nature and the landscape. As a child, I spent many summers in Switzerland. Also, physios are highly sought after here. Compared to England, for example, it’s much easier to find a job as a physiotherapist here.”
Was it difficult to leave your familiar life behind?
“Not really, I was ready for something new. It felt liberating to discover a new place.”
What’s unexpectedly wonderful about your life there?
“My home in Bremgarten is truly amazing: it’s close to the historic center, the river Reuss, and a forest with a Vita-Parcours, and I have views of the Alps. I can easily host guests, and my job is within walking distance. That feels very luxurious.”
A Vita-Parcours is a kind of fitness trail with obstacles along a 5 km running route.
Finances in Switzerland
Do you earn more?
“Definitely. About three times as much as in the Netherlands. Fixed costs are higher, but thanks to the higher salary I still have more left over, even though I don’t work full-time. That allows me to save more and enjoy even more activities.”
Which goals are easier to reach now?
“Saving is much faster, without having to cut back. At the same time, I can book fun trips. This winter, for example, I’m planning a flight to Portugal!”
The organization of physiotherapy
What stands out about how healthcare is organized here?
“In the Netherlands, health insurers decide a lot, but here it’s the GP who makes the plan. Usually, they prescribe 9 treatments, which can be extended. This allows you as a physiotherapist to really provide tailored care. There’s also more imaging used here.”
How do patients and colleagues differ?
“I now work in a small practice, which is very different from my previous job in a large elderly care organization. In Switzerland, I notice that patients follow advice more quickly and are honest when they haven’t done their exercises. Clinics and practices here are also very digitally equipped: we work with a user-friendly platform and a patient exercise app.”
Development & continuing education
Can you continue to develop yourself here?
“Absolutely. I’m currently studying German (B2 level). After that, I plan to take some short courses and a program in neurology or psychosomatics. My practice gives me one week of study leave per year and reimburses at least half of the costs if it’s relevant to the practice.”
Is learning really encouraged?
“Definitely. I don’t feel pressure, but rather encouragement, which is great. Everyone is interested in further development. Two of my colleagues are currently studying sports physiotherapy, for example. We also regularly have meetings where we learn from each other. Everyone motivates each other to grow.”
Work–life balance
How does your work–life balance feel?
“Almost every weekend feels like a mini-holiday, with hiking, camping, or simply heading into the mountains. Even returning home at Bremgarten station always feels like arriving on vacation.”
What do you enjoy outside of work?
“I love visiting the gelateria in the old town or a cozy spot with a terrace along the Reuss. There are often festivals or (small) events on weekends. From my home, I see birds of prey and foxes passing by. I have a green view with the Alps in the background. I don’t own a car, but I can get everywhere by public transport. I couldn’t have wished for a better situation.”
Your advice to doubters
“If you love nature, adventure, and patients who actively participate: go for it. The biggest step is daring to make the decision. After that, with the help of PhysioMatch, everything else becomes very easy.”
Thank you, Carmen, for sharing your inspiring story!
Would you also like to discover what life as a physiotherapist in Switzerland is like, just like Carmen? Feel free to contact us. We guide you step by step, from the first introduction to your very first working day.
