Frequently Asked Questions

This section of our site is designed to answer the questions that we are most frequently asked by those interested in learning more about Paracelsus.

I would like to call Paracelsus for more information, what are their hours of operation?
The Paracelsus Klinik’s Patient Information Center is open 9:30am-7pm Central European Time (3:30am-1pm EST and 12:30am-10am PST) to receive phone calls. If you call outside their business hours, please leave a message and your call will be returned within 3 business days.

What is the typical wait to get an appointment?
It varies, depending on the time of year, the doctors’ schedules, and which doctors you need to see. In general, you can expect to wait about 2 to 12 weeks to arrange for your first stay. It can take between 1 and 2 weeks to get an appointment date or phone consultation.

Will I get to see Dr Rau?
Dr Rau has limited openings for new patients. He always sees patients in conjunction with another doctor. However, his schedule may be booked well in advance. Dr Rau has personally developed the Biological Medicine training program used at Paracelsus, and he has trained and worked with each of the doctors at the clinics. All doctors at the clinics are fully qualified Biological Medicine physicians. You will see your assigned doctor on your first day and many times during your stay.

How long should I expect to stay?
The typical first stay is for two to three weeks. This allows the doctor’s time to do a complete and thorough evaluation, make dietary changes, and begin appropriate treatments for you. Follow-up visits are for shorter durations, usually lasting about one week. It is typical for patients to come to Paracelsus three or four times per year for "tune-ups" while maintaining their program at home through the use of supplements, dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and other treatment protocols.

Will I stay over at the clinic?
The clinic at Lustmühle is an out-patient facility, so you will stay in a hotel during your visit. We highly recommend The Säntis Hotel in Teufen, as this property prepares meals according to Dr Rau’s guidelines, and provides their own shuttle service to and from the clinic. For patients who need it, there is also the possibility to do infrared sauna, pulsed magnetic field or even local hyperthermia as additional treatment in the evenings. Patients not staying at the Säntis are welcome to make dinner reservations there. There are also a host of other lodging accommodations in the nearby town of St. Gallen.

How should I pack?
Switzerland weather is similar to New England weather, including cold, snowy winters and hot summers. We suggest checking online for up-to-date weather conditions. Dressing in layers with cotton and sweaters is always advisable. Be sure to pack comfortable clothes, walking shoes, slippers for the hotel, books, notebook for taking notes, and music and DVDs if you wish. An additional bag is suggested for bringing back a 3-6 month supply of medications. Internet and phone access is available at the Säntis and at the clinic.

What medical documentation should I bring with me?
It is not necessary to bring records or copies of notes from your current doctors. However, you may bring your most recent test results if you like. The clinic does their own testing as they see fit.

What about transportation while I’m there?
Shuttle service to and from the clinic is provided for the hotels in Teufen. There is also a train service, which is easy and efficient. You can rent a car if you wish and there are taxis, but they are expensive. Upon your arrival you can take the train from the airport to St. Gallen, rent a car or ask to be met by a private driver. The clinic can organize this for you and give you the updated costs. Patients staying in St. Gallen will need to take a taxi or use the Appenzeller train.

How much does it usually cost for treatment at Paracelsus?
Your initial costs are approximately $7,800 for the first week of your visit and approximately $4,800 per week for each additional week. These costs include medications, supplements, and homeopathic remedies. Dental visits are in addition to that fee and estimates will be provided after a patient is evaluated at the dental clinic. Hotel accommodations are at your own cost. Most of the hotels include breakfast, so lunch and dinners are extra.

How and when do I pay?
You will be required to pay a deposit of 500 Swiss Francs to secure your appointments at the time of your confirmation with the clinic. Upon arrival, the clinic will ask for a 4000 Swiss Francs deposit, which will be applied to your first week’s bill. This amount may be adjusted if you are only staying for a week, but most initial stays are two to three weeks. Every Thursday morning you will receive an update on your treatment cost, and you will be asked to make another down payment as soon as your credit is used up. Most people pay by credit card. Travelers’ checks are also accepted. A payment information form will be provided to you as part of your registration packet, with additional information on payment processes.

Will my health insurance cover any of the consultations or treatments?
Insurance coverage depends mostly on your insurance plan, and in some cases the state in which you live in. A few states and some health plans are expanding coverage to include some types of alternative medical treatments. Paracelsus does not work directly with US health insurance providers, so if you do have coverage, you would pay out of pocket for the expenses and then submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. It is advisable to contact your insurance company prior to your visit to determine whether you have coverage.