Swiss doctor quits after 30 years over new healthcare billing rules

After nearly 30 years in medicine, Armin Koch has closed his practice in Sarnen, canton Obwalden. The 62-year-old physician, known for his expertise in Traditional Chinese Medicine, decided to step away rather than adjust to Switzerland's new healthcare billing system.

Koch's path to medicine began after his father suffered a stroke. Initially trained as a secondary school teacher, he later worked as a ski instructor before pursuing medical studies. His interest in alternative treatments grew over time, leading him to specialise in acupuncture.

In the early 2000s, he secured a training opportunity in Sri Lanka and relocated there with his family. Despite occasional mishaps—like a patient discovering a forgotten needle in her hair—he built a reputation for his work with needles. Koch viewed his role as creating the right conditions for healing, regardless of the method used. The introduction of the **TARDOC tariff structure** on January 1, 2026, replaced the old TARMED system. While the new rules focused on cost control and efficiency, Koch refused to adapt. His decision to close the practice last week followed years of resistance to the changes.

The closure marks the end of Koch's long career in Sarnen. His departure leaves patients seeking alternative treatments with fewer local options. The new tariff system remains in place, unaffected by his exit.