Meet our team
Your expert team for your weight loss journey – your health and well-being are important to us.
“We don't just change your weight. We change how your body functions.”
5000+
Consultations in the first year
Interdisciplinary
Doctors × Nutritional Counseling × Coaching
96% Satisfaction
Patients report
No prejudice, no shame
Weight loss begins without blame. With medical understanding, genuine support, and solutions that involve the body.
Every body is unique
Weight loss is complex
Society completely misunderstands weight
Everyone should have access to modern therapies
Our Vision
A program that redefines weight loss – going far beyond traditional concepts and placing you and your journey at the heart of what we do.
Our Mission
To help people sustainably achieve their healthy weight – with medical expertise, modern therapies, and genuine, personal support.
The Experts
Dr. med. Gezim Dervishi
Founder & Physician
Specialist in General Medicine (D)
Functional Medicine – Medical (FMCP-M)
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Rachelle Hirsig
Registered Dietitian BSc BFH,
Head Dietitian
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Dr. med. Norbert Niebuhr
Founder & Medical Director
Specialist in General Internal Medicine FMH
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Shannon Helbling
Head of Holistic Nutrition
BSc Nutrition and Dietetics
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Prof. Dr. Jörg Zehetner
Specialist in Visceral Surgery FMH
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Dr. med. Ana Lasica
Physician & Chief Growth Officer
Physician in specialist training – focus on obesity medicine
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Dr. med. univ. Marie-Theres Bayer
Physician
Specialist training in Internal Medicine
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Dr. med. Irina Benninger
Specialist in General Internal Medicine FMH
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Dr. med. univ. (I) Stefano Guicciardini
General Practitioner, FMH Member
Obesity & Chronic Care
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Pamela Rindlisbacher
Registered Dietitian
BSc Nutrition and Dietetics
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Annina Tischler
Registered Dietitian BFH SVDE
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Liburna Foniqi
Medical Practice Coordinator
Team Lead
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Thomas Poortman
Registered Dietitian
BSc Nutrition and Dietetics
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Denise Beqiri
Care Manager
Billing
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Diana Umalatova
Care Manager
Patient Communication
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Our team holds the following accreditations, certifications, or diplomas:
Our Story
How it began
ViaSlim was founded by Dr. Gezim Dervishi and Norbert Niebuhr – two best friends and experienced doctors who aim to revolutionize obesity treatment. With the valuable expertise of Prof. Dr. Jörg Zehetner, one of Switzerland's leading experts in obesity management, ViaSlim has developed one of Switzerland's first fully digital, app-based weight loss clinics.
Your ViaSlim clinic
At ViaSlim you'll find a modern, calm clinic —
a place where medical care and personal wellbeing come together.
Discreet & pleasant
Doctor-led
Centrally located
Our clinic in Zurich
Asylstrasse 104, 8032 Zürich
Mon–Fri, 08 - 17:00
Easily accessible
Our clinic in Bern
Schänzlihalde 1, 3013 Bern
By appointment
Near the main station, in the rooms of Swiss1Chirurgie
Our clinic in Basel
Neubadrain 4, 4102 Binningen
By appointment
Easily accessible
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Directions to the ViaSlim clinic
Asylstrasse 104, 8032 Zürich
Schänzlihalde 1, 3013 Bern
From Zurich Stadelhofen
Tram no. 2
Towards Zürich Klusplatz
Stop: Hölderlinstrasse
⏱️ Journey time approx. 5 min + 2 min on foot
Getting here by car
Blue and white zone parking in the adjacent neighbourhood street
From Bern Main Station
Bus no. 12
Towards Zentrum Paul Klee, stop: Casino
⏱️ Journey time approx. 6 min + 3 min on foot
Getting here by car
Casino car park right nearby, blue zone in the neighbourhood street.
The clinic is located in the rooms of Swiss1Chirurgie.
Medical care without hurdles
Arrive & feel good
Therapy that adapts to you
Your blood test can detect silent health risks
ViaSlim isn't about aesthetic goals, but about sustainable, medically sound weight loss.
Chur (Medisyn)
Opening hours
Mon–Fri: 08:00–13:00
Address
Belmontstrasse 1, 7000 Chur
Blood collection centre
Your journey with ViaSlim, step by step
Fill out a health check
Answer a few questions about your health, lifestyle, and history.
Our team of doctors will check whether you are suitable for the treatment.
Medical consultation
Together, we discuss your symptoms, answer your most important questions and lay the basis for your individual plan with targeted tests.
Individual plan
Based on your laboratory values, a holistic treatment plan is created that combines hormones, nutrition and lifestyle.
Continuous support
Regular check-ins, flexible appointments online or on site in Zurich, plus continuous adjustments to your plan with a team that supports you over the long term.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Which weight-loss medication is used?
Which weight-loss medication is used?
Once our medical team has reviewed your eligibility, we can tell you about the active ingredients that may be suitable for you. We use only original branded medication, shipped by licensed Swiss pharmacies. Our medical team is available throughout the entire process to answer all your questions.
Why isn't it shown which medication is prescribed?
Why isn't it shown which medication is prescribed?
Under the Swiss law on advertising for therapeutic products, prescription medication may not be named or advertised before a medical assessment. Only after reviewing your details can our team of doctors share suitable options with you.
How does the weight-loss medication work?
How does the weight-loss medication work?
The medication supports weight loss by mimicking a natural hormone in your body that regulates appetite and digestion. It helps you feel full for longer, even with smaller portions. It also reduces appetite, so patients feel the urge to eat less often.
How long should I take the medication?
How long should I take the medication?
Everyone responds to the treatment differently and at their own pace. We generally recommend staying in the programme for 6–12 months to reach your target weight and build healthy habits that keep your weight stable in the long term.
Why is a minimum of 6 months recommended?
Why is a minimum of 6 months recommended?
We see that our patients want to lose as much weight as possible, as quickly as possible, at the start. However, putting your body under that much strain is unhealthy. Making small changes over time and focusing on building healthy habits, rather than on the number on the scale, is more sustainable, more satisfying and healthier.
Why is it recommended to stay in the programme for 12 months?
Why is it recommended to stay in the programme for 12 months?
Although most patients start losing weight within the first 6 months, reaching their target weight often takes longer. A healthy rate of weight loss is 0.5–1 kg per week. Beyond the weight loss achieved with the medication, the other focus of the ViaSlim programme is to help you build healthy habits around nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management and more – habits that will maintain your weight loss. We recommend 12 months in the programme to integrate these new habits into your life.
Do I have to take the medication for the rest of my life to maintain my new weight?
Do I have to take the medication for the rest of my life to maintain my new weight?
There are no known withdrawal symptoms when the treatment is stopped. However, many patients continue to experience reduced appetite and a feeling of fullness for several weeks after stopping, as the medication remains in the body for a while due to its long half-life. Some people have regained weight after stopping the treatment. That is why it is important to use the time in the programme to develop new habits around nutrition and exercise, and to keep them up in the long term in order to maintain your weight.
What happens if I have side effects?
What happens if I have side effects?
You stay in close contact with your doctor and your care team, with regular consultations to spot side effects early and take countermeasures. If you notice side effects during the ViaSlim weight-loss programme, you can contact your ViaSlim doctor at any time. Our team is there for you to make sure you feel comfortable throughout your treatment and that all your questions are answered.
What happens if I miss a dose?
What happens if I miss a dose?
If you have accidentally missed your weekly dose, our medical care team advises that you can take the missed dose within 5 days of the original due date. You can then take your dose on your usual scheduled day and continue as normal. If more than 5 days have passed, however, please wait until your dosing day the following week. For example, if you should have injected on Monday 1 May but missed your dose, you can safely catch up on the injection up to and including Saturday 6 May. If it is already past Saturday, skip this week's dose and continue as usual on Monday 8 May. If you need further support, please contact our medical support team.
What is the ViaSlim weight-loss programme?
What is the ViaSlim weight-loss programme?
ViaSlim is a doctor-led weight-loss programme in Switzerland that combines modern medication with medical care, nutrition coaching and health coaching.
We are a licensed medical centre for obesity medicine and support you not only digitally but also in person in Zurich.
What makes ViaSlim different from a traditional practice?
What makes ViaSlim different from a traditional practice?
ViaSlim combines the best of two worlds: a medical clinic and digital care.
Available in person: We are not just an online platform. ViaSlim also offers in-person consultations in Zurich, for example for medical assessments or when your health insurance requires it.
Modern care without unnecessary travel: Many appointments can conveniently take place by video or digitally. That way you get quick support in everyday life without having to travel to a clinic every time.
An interdisciplinary team instead of a single appointment: You are supported by a team: doctors, nutrition coaches and health coaches. So you don't just get a prescription, but a sustainable strategy for nutrition, behaviour and long-term habits.
What does the programme include?
What does the programme include?
Our weight-loss programme offers you comprehensive care that goes far beyond the medication alone:
Appetite-reducing medication: Acts specifically on your sense of hunger and replicates your satiety hormones, so you feel full for longer and avoid cravings.
Discreet medication delivery: Your medication is delivered reliably and safely straight to your door – convenient and discreet.
Medical consultations: Through continuous medical care we make sure the medication works optimally. If you have questions or possible side effects, our medical team is available at any time to respond quickly and support you.
Individual nutrition coaching: Alongside the medical care, our nutrition coaches accompany you on your weight-loss journey and offer tailored support with your diet and lifestyle
Access to the ViaSlim app: With the free ViaSlim app you always have your entire weight-loss programme in your pocket, 100 % digital, secure and simple.
Direct contact with your treatment team:
Chat function for quick questions
Video consultations with doctors, nutrition coaches and health coaches
All appointments and recommendations clearly in one place
Your progress at a glance, any time
Documentation of your development
Smart features such as real-time meal recognition
Your weight data always in view
Holistic support
Our health coaches and nutrition coaches guide you with a scientifically based learning curriculum developed specifically for sustainable weight loss – step by step and at your own pace.
Motivation & community
As a ViaSlim participant you have access to our exclusive community. Share experiences with like-minded people, celebrate successes and stay motivated even in difficult phases. Together it's easier to keep going
The result: A genuine all-round package that supports you medically, emotionally and in everyday life – so you reach your goals sustainably and with the right support.
Is there a minimum contract period?
Is there a minimum contract period?
There is no minimum contract period, which means you can cancel at any time before your next payment. We will stop all future payments and orders.
Why is the ViaSlim weight-loss programme better than the medication alone?
Why is the ViaSlim weight-loss programme better than the medication alone?
The ViaSlim weight-loss programme delivers significantly better results than taking the medication on its own. The reason lies in the comprehensive care and support the programme provides. Studies show that people who receive regular medical advice, health coaching and a supportive community in addition to medication lose significantly more weight than those who use the medication alone. With ViaSlim you don't just get the medication, but also the structured support to achieve long-term success and maximise your weight loss.
Is there a minimum contract period?
Is there a minimum contract period?
There is no minimum contract period, which means you can cancel at any time before your next payment. We will stop all future payments and orders.
How much does the programme cost?
How much does the programme cost?
At ViaSlim you have two transparent models, depending on whether your health insurance covers the treatment or you prefer to pay yourself.
- The basic insurance model (via your health insurance)
This model is suitable for you if you have a BMI above 28 and meet the medical requirements.
What is covered?
In-person and video consultations with doctors during the treatment
Nutrition coaching sessions
These services are billed via your basic insurance.
Important:
For cost coverage, a one-off in-person consultation in Zurich (Asylstrasse 104) is usually required. If you are eligible, we handle the request for cost approval of the medication with your health insurance for you, you don't need to do anything. - The self-pay model
Start now with Switzerland's best-value weight-loss programme, only 225 CHF per month including medication. No hidden costs – prescription, medical care, shipping & dose increases* included
How it works: After your first payment and the start of the programme, you will be charged 225 CHF every 28 days. The medication is delivered straight to your home. There is no minimum term; you can cancel your next order at any time before the next payment date.
*Please note that this applies to the standard dosing schedule. Doctors may prescribe a higher dose if you have already taken the medication before. If you wish to increase your dose (if well tolerated and with medical approval), additional costs may apply.
How does the 28-day money-back guarantee work?
How does the 28-day money-back guarantee work?
Your health comes first for us. That is why we offer all our patients in the self-pay model a 28-day money-back guarantee for starting our treatment plan as part of the weight-loss programme – in case you cannot continue due to side effects or a change in your health situation. To avoid wasting medication and ensure responsible use, the guarantee applies under the following conditions:
- It applies exclusively to the starter treatment plan; a refund is not possible for higher dose levels.
- The guarantee only applies if you have to stop the treatment because of side effects or for medical reasons.
The refund request must:
- Be submitted within 28 days of your first prescription order
- And reach us before your second scheduled delivery is shipped
The guarantee can be used once per patient. If you think you qualify, simply contact our support team – we will guide you sensitively through the next steps.
When does health insurance cover the cost of the medication?
When does health insurance cover the cost of the medication?
Health insurance covers the cost of modern weight-loss medication only under clearly defined medical conditions.
Coverage of the medication is possible if:
- your BMI is above 35
or - your BMI is above 28 and you have at least one weight-related comorbidity
e.g. high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnoea or elevated blood lipids
Also important: In these cases an in-person consultation in Zurich (Asylstrasse 104) is required
Best of all: ViaSlim takes care of everything: We check your eligibility, compile all the necessary documents and handle the entire cost-approval process for you. You are guided step by step throughout
How do I start the programme?
How do I start the programme?
After you complete the medical questionnaire on our website, our system reviews your answers to confirm your eligibility for our programme. If the result is positive, your journey with ViaSlim can begin! You book your first appointment with your doctor by video consultation. We also recommend a blood test, which you can have done at one of our many lab centres across Switzerland or at your GP.
Do I need a special scale for the ViaSlim programme?
Do I need a special scale for the ViaSlim programme?
No, a special scale is not strictly necessary. We do, however, recommend using a modern body-composition scale so that your progress can be assessed as accurately and individually as possible.
Why a body-composition scale makes sense: Such a scale measures not only your weight but also other values such as body fat, muscle mass and water percentage. This information helps our treatment team assess your progress on a sound medical basis and adjust your therapy optimally where needed.
Our recommendation from ViaSlim: You are of course welcome to use your own scale. Optionally, we also offer you a modern Withings smart scale for a one-off 149 CHF. It transfers your measurements automatically, with seamless integration into your treatment record. The scale is yours to keep and can be used after the programme too
The scale is not a must, but a clear advantage for even more individual care and a better medical assessment of your progress.
What if the programme isn't suitable for me?
What if the programme isn't suitable for me?
If the prescription medication is not suitable for you, we refund the amount immediately. You can end the programme at any time.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
Do I need a referral from my GP?
Only if you are interested in our basic insurance model and have a family-doctor or HMO model with your health insurance. In that case we need a referral from your GP. You can still register with us beforehand: after registration you receive a form from us that you can send to your GP. With a telephone model («Telmed»), you would need to ask your insurer in advance to approve the referral to us (focus: obesity medicine). Many policies, however, include free choice of doctor, so you can simply book an appointment with us directly, either online or by phone
Is a laboratory test required?
Is a laboratory test required?
Yes, to take part in the ViaSlim programme we need a recent laboratory test including, among other things, a full blood count, lipid profile, TSH and HbA1c, and it must not be older than six months.
The laboratory test can be carried out by your GP and the results then sent to viaslim@hin.ch. Alternatively, we offer a blood draw at one of our partner locations. You can find our partner locations at: https://booking.mymediservice.ch/viaslim/
How can I cancel or reschedule an appointment?
How can I cancel or reschedule an appointment?
Please let us know at least 24 hours in advance if you want to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This allows us to offer the slot to other patients.
You can easily cancel via:
📞 Phone: +41 79 604 9843
📧 E-mail: care@viaslim.ch
💻 Directly in your mobile app
What happens if I cancel my appointment too late or don't show up?
What happens if I cancel my appointment too late or don't show up?
Appointments that are not cancelled in time or missed without notice are charged a no-show fee. This flat-rate compensation is currently CHF 50.– for nutrition coaching and health coaching appointments, and CHF 75.– for medical consultations.
How can I book an appointment?
How can I book an appointment?
We currently still have treatment slots available. If you urgently need advice, don't hesitate to contact us directly – we will help you as quickly as possible.
At ViaSlim, appointments are allocated in several steps to make sure you receive the best possible care: before you can book your initial consultation, we ask you to enter your details via our quiz at onboarding.viaslim.ch. This helps us check your eligibility for the therapy and offer you an optimal treatment plan.
1. After a successful eligibility check: you can book an appointment for your initial consultation directly via our digital booking form.
2. Free initial phone consultation: if you have questions beforehand, you can book a no-obligation initial consultation with our care team at any time. Feel free to write to us at support@viaslim.ch.
3. Booking in the mobile app: after registering, you can also manage and book your appointments directly in our ViaSlim app – conveniently and flexibly from anywhere.
What payment methods are available?
What payment methods are available?
Patients in the basic insurance model are billed via basic insurance, just like any other visit to a doctor in Switzerland. The services are invoiced directly to your health insurance.
In the self-pay model, you can conveniently pay online by credit card. As a subscription service, we make sure you never have to worry about running out of medication. After you register, we charge your card at regular intervals, depending on the treatment prescribed. Your medication is delivered by our shipping partner, so you don't need to worry about delivery.
When is the monthly payment charged?
When is the monthly payment charged?
After your first payment and the shipping of your order, your next payment is charged automatically 28 days later to ensure continuous supply. For every further order on your prescription, payment is charged every 28 days. If you need to postpone your next payment, contact our team via the contact form.
What is the notice period?
What is the notice period?
You can cancel at any time before your next payment. We will stop all future payments and orders. Please note that processing can take 1–2 days. To make sure your subscription is cancelled in time, please let our team know a few days before your next payment date if you wish to cancel.
How do I receive the medication?
How do I receive the medication?
Our partner pharmacy sends your medication every month directly to your home or to an address of your choice. We ship in refrigerated packaging to maintain the cold chain of your medication.
When will I receive the medication?
When will I receive the medication?
As soon as you have completed the medical questionnaire and had your initial consultation with one of our doctors. If the doctor determines that the treatment is suitable for you and no further questions remain, you receive your treatment plan. Once you have reviewed and confirmed your plan, your order is sent to the pharmacy. Our partner pharmacy packs your medication and usually ships it to our patients as quickly as possible.