Sudden pain, a fall, a fever that won't go away: when a health problem arises, the first question is rarely “what's wrong with me?” but rather “where should I go?”. Choosing the wrong door often means a longer wait and being less well directed. Here is a simple guide to choosing the right place, at the right time, in Montreux and on the Vaud Riviera.
Content validated by Dr Cécile Besson Duvanel, Medical Director
Some situations are not up for discussion. Severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden paralysis on one side of the body, sudden speech difficulty, loss of consciousness, heavy bleeding: immediately dial 144, the Swiss emergency medical number. Every minute counts, and the emergency teams are trained and equipped to respond on site, then take you to the right hospital.
Remember the rule: if in any doubt about how serious it is, call 144. No one will ever blame you for calling.
For anything that needs prompt care without being life-threatening, a walk-in emergency service is the right place: a wound that needs stitches, a sprain or a fall, a fever that persists, acute pain, an infection, feeling faint or unwell with no apparent sign of anything serious.
In Montreux, Quai Santé's emergency care sees you without an appointment, on the 3rd floor of the SBB railway station building, a few steps from the platforms. Radiology and the laboratory are right there on site: in most cases, the examination, imaging and results all happen on the same floor, without extra journeys or extra waiting.
Symptoms that have been there for several days, a repeat prescription, follow-up of a chronic condition, a check-up, a medical certificate: this is your family doctor's territory. They know your history, coordinate your care and refer you to a specialist if necessary.
Going to emergency care for these situations is a common instinct, but a counterproductive one: urgent cases are seen before you, and the doctor who sees you doesn't have your full record. An appointment with your GP remains the best option.
No regular doctor in the area yet? That's the case for many residents of the Riviera, expats and students. Our 8 general practitioners are accepting new patients, by appointment on 021 964 30 00.
If in doubt, call. 144 for any situation that seems serious, your doctor or our team on 021 964 30 00 to be directed to the right care. Asking is never a mistake. In fact, it's the right first step.
Need a doctor quickly? Our emergency care sees you without an appointment at Montreux station, and our 16 doctors and practitioners are available by appointment on 021 964 30 00.
This information is general and does not replace a medical consultation. In a life-threatening emergency, call 144. Medical disclaimer
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