Independent nurses in Ticino: recognition and criticism

Di Valerie Linc ·

Andrè Brusasco, an independent nurse, talks about home care work in Ticino and current challenges

Contesto

In brief - Independent nurses in Ticino: from 200 to 700 in a few years - Criticism for the increase in health insurance premiums - Precarious working conditions for nurses - Concrete examples: Lugano and Bellinzona - Regulations: Federal Law on Health Insurance (LAMal) and cost-sharing from April 1, 2023 ## Key facts - What: Increase in the number of independent nurses in Ticino - When: From 2015 to today - Where: Canton Ticino, with a focus on Lugano and Bellinzona - Who: Andrè Brusasco and colleagues - Amount: From 200 to 700 independent nurses - Health expenditure: Independent nurses represent about 2% of total health expenditure Andrè Brusasco, an independent nurse in Ticino, shares his experience and the challenges of home care work. During the Covid pandemic, nurses were considered angels, applauded by the population. Today, however, they are under media attack for the increase in health insurance premiums. Brusasco has been working as an independent nurse since 2015, when he requested the right to practice independently. In a few years, the number of independent nurses has grown from 200 to 700, with a significant concentration in Lugano and Bellinzona. ### The current situation Brusasco criticizes the current situation, where independent nurses are considered the main responsible for the increase in health insurance premiums. However, they represent only a small part of health expenditure, about 2%. The cost-sharing for home care services came into effect on April 1, 2023, further increasing criticism towards independent nurses. According to the Federal Law on Health Insurance (LAMal), patients must now contribute with 10% of the cost of the services, with a maximum of 500 francs per year. ### Working conditions Independent nurses in Ticino work under preca...

Dettagli operativi

Analysis of Critical Issues The situation of self-employed nurses in Ticino is complex and requires an in-depth analysis. On one hand, there is recognition of their work during Covid, on the other, criticism for the increase in health insurance premiums. Brusasco emphasizes that self-employed nurses represent only 3% of healthcare spending but are easily targeted by the media. ### Comparison with Employed Work Employed nurses in Ticino have more secure working conditions, with social costs paid, holidays, and a thirteenth salary. According to 2022 data, an employed nurse in Ticino earns an average of CHF 7,500 per month, with a collective labor agreement guaranteeing at least 20 days of vacation and a thirteenth month. Self-employed nurses, on the other hand, work without security and without the possibility of unemployment benefits. This creates a significant gap between the two groups of workers. ### Implications for Cross-Border Workers Cross-border workers who work as self-employed nurses in Ticino face additional challenges. Double taxation and differences in pension and healthcare systems between Italy and Switzerland can make the situation even more complex. For example, a self-employed nurse working in Lugano and residing in Italy must pay taxes in both countries, with a rate that can reach 30% of income. Additionally, participation in home care costs can affect their disposable income. ### Future Scenarios If working conditions for employed nurses do not improve, it is likely that more nurses will choose the path of self-employment. This could lead to an increase in the number of self-employed nurses and further criticism towards this group of workers. However, if working conditions improve, there could be a return to employed work. ### Operational Checklis...

Punti chiave

What to do now For self-employed nurses in Ticino, it is crucial to know their rights and responsibilities. Here are some detailed steps to follow: 1. Learn about regulations: Know the laws and regulations governing the work of self-employed nurses in Ticino. For example, the Federal Law on the Nursing Profession of 2007 (LProfI) and the Ordinance on the Nursing Profession of 2008 (OProfI) establish the requirements for practicing the profession. It is important to know that, as of 2021, self-employed nurses must be registered in the Registry of Health Professions (RPS). 2. Join associations: Join professional associations such as the Ticino Nurses Association (AIT) or the Swiss Federation of Nurses (FSI) for support and representation. These associations offer legal advice, continuing education, and union representation. For example, AIT has negotiated wage agreements that provide a minimum of CHF 4,500 per month for experienced self-employed nurses. 3. Monitor expenses: Keep track of expenses and earnings to manage your income effectively. It is useful to use accounting software such as QuickBooks or Sage, which allow you to monitor income and expenses. For example, a self-employed nurse in Lugano might have monthly expenses of approximately CHF 2,000 for rent, health insurance, and work materials. 4. Evaluate options: Consider the options of employed and self-employed work, weighing the pros and cons of each. For example, a nurse employed in a hospital in Bellinzona might earn CHF 6,000 per month, while a self-employed nurse might earn CHF 8,000 per month but with greater tax and administrative responsibilities. 5. Use available tools: Use tools such as the salary calculator to compare salaries and plan your future. For example, the calculator can show that a se...

Punti chiave

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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a dependent and an independent nurse?
Dependent nurses work for a healthcare facility and have an employment contract with all social benefits. Independent nurses, on the other hand, work for themselves and do not have the same security and benefits.
How can I become an independent nurse in Ticino?
To become an independent nurse in Ticino, you need to apply for the right to practice and follow local regulations. It is important to inform yourself about the laws and procedures to follow.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of independent work?
The advantages of independent work include the possibility of managing your own time and working autonomously. The disadvantages include the lack of security and social benefits, as well as the responsibility of managing all expenses and taxes.

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