The Federal Act on a Secure Supply of Renewable Energies (Electricity Act) aims to increase domestic electricity production from renewable sources. This is urgently needed in view of Switzerland’s dependence on electricity imports (particularly in the winter months), as well as the increasing decarbonisation and associated shift towards electrification. «Companies in the Swiss medtech sector depend on a secure power supply. In addition, sustainability has become a highly relevant criterion for market access. Customers and investors are increasingly requesting information regarding carbon footprints. The Electricity Act meets both of these requirements,» says Swiss Medtech Director Adrian Hunn, who is pleased with the strong Yes vote.
Swiss Medtech also welcomes the rejection of the two healthcare initiatives. The Premium Relief Initiative would not have saved a franc. It would have placed tremendous strain on federal finances – without eliminating one single disincentive from the system. Moreover, introduction of the type of global budget envisaged by the Cost-Brake Initiative would have worsened both the quality as well as the access to healthcare. Swiss Medtech does recognize the cost pressures in the healthcare system. However, demanding ever greater regulation, increased state control, rigid mechanisms, and cost caps is not constructive. «It is a mistake to focus solely on the cost of healthcare. It is much more important to maintain and create the greatest possible level of health per each franc invested,» says Swiss Medtech President Damian Müller.
Swiss Medtech represents around 800 members in its role as industry association for Swiss medical technology. With 71,700 employees and a contribution of 11.9% to the positive trade balance, medical technology is an economically significant sector in Switzerland. Swiss Medtech advocates for conditions that enable the medtech industry to perform at peak capacity and provide first-class medical care.