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
Shannon Helbling
Head of Holistic Nutrition
BSc Nutrition and Dietetics
Dr. Gezim Dervishi
Founder & Physician
Specialist in General Medicine (Germany)
Dr. Norbert Niebuhr, MD
Founder & Medical Director
Specialist in General Internal Medicine (FMH)
Prof. Dr. Jörg Zehetner
FMH Specialist in Visceral Surgery
Dr. Ana Lasica
Doctor & Chief Growth Officer
Physician in Training – Specializing in Obesity Medicine
Dr. med. Irina Benninger
Specialist in General Internal Medicine FMH
Dr. med. Florian Pfefferkorn
FMH Specialist in General Internal Medicine
FMH Specialist in Nuclear Medicine
Dr. med. univ. (I) Stefano Guicciardini
General Practitioner, FMH Member
Mareike Meyerdierks
Nutritionist
BSc Health Education
Lukas Abraham
Nutritionist
BSc Nutrition and Dietetics
Annina Tischler
Registered Dietitian BFH SVDE
Melinda Kress
Head of Health Coaching & Marketing
(Blog, Newsletter, Social Media)
Denise Beqiri
Care Manager
Billing
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.
Our ViaSlim practice
At ViaSlim, you'll find a modern, quiet practice —
a place where medical care and personal wellbeing come together.
Discreet & pleasant
Physically supervised
Centrally located
Our practice in Zurich
Asylstrasse 104, 8032 Zurich
Mon—Fr, 08 - 17:00
Easily accessible
Our Practice in Bern
Schänzlihalde 1, 3013 Bern
By appointment
Near Main Station
.avif)
Directions to the viaSlim practice
Asylstrasse 104, 8032 Zurich
Schänzlihalde 1, 3013 Bern
From Zurich Stadelhofen
Tram #2
Direction Zürich Klusplatz
Hölderlinstraße stop
⏱️ Travel time approx. 5 min + 2 min on foot
Arriving by car
Blue and white zone parking facilities in the adjacent district street
From Bern Main Station
Bus No. 12
Towards Paul Klee Center, Casino stop
⏱️ Travel time approx. 6 min + 3 min walk
Getting here by car
Casino parking garage nearby, blue zone parking on the neighborhood street
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 center
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, diet, 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 will support you over the long term.
Everything you need to know
Which weight loss medication is used?
Which weight loss medication is used?
After a review of your eligibility by our medical team, we can inform you about the appropriate active ingredients. We only use original branded medicines and are shipped by approved Swiss pharmacies. Our medical team is available throughout the process to answer any questions you may have.
Why is it not shown which medication is prescribed?
Why is it not shown which medication is prescribed?
Due to the Therapeutic Products Advertising Act, prescription drugs may not be mentioned or advertised before a medical evaluation. Only after checking your information 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 drug supports weight loss by imitating a natural hormone in your body that regulates appetite and digestion. It makes you feel full longer, even with smaller portions. In addition, it decreases appetite, so patients do not feel the need to eat as often.
How long should I take the medication?
How long should I take the medication?
Everyone reacts differently to treatment and at a different pace. We generally recommend staying in the program for 6-12 months to reach your target weight and build healthy habits that maintain your weight over 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 and as quickly as possible in the beginning. However, it is unhealthy to put too much stress on your body in this way. Making small changes over time and focusing on creating healthy habits rather than focusing on the number on the scale is more sustainable, satisfying, and healthier.
Why is it recommended to stay in the program for 12 months?
Why is it recommended to stay in the program for 12 months?
Although most patients start losing weight within the first 6 months, it often takes longer to reach their target weight. A healthy rate of weight loss is 0.5-1 kg per week. Aside from weight loss through medication, the other focus of the ViaSlim program is to help you develop healthy habits of diet, exercise, sleep, stress management, and more that will maintain your weight loss. We recommend spending 12 months in the program to incorporate these new habits into your life.
Will I have to take the medication for the rest of my life to maintain the new weight?
Will I have to take the medication for the rest of my life to maintain the new weight?
There are no known withdrawal symptoms when treatment is stopped. However, many patients continue to experience reduced appetite and satiety even a few weeks after discontinuation, as the drug remains in the body for a while due to its long half-life. Some people have experienced weight gain after discontinuing treatment. It is therefore important that patients use time during the program to develop new habits related to diet and exercise and maintain them over the long term to maintain weight.
What happens if I have side effects?
What happens if I have side effects?
You will be in close contact with your doctor and your care team, and regular consultations will take place in order to identify and counteract side effects at an early stage. If you experience any side effects during the ViaSlim weight loss program, you can contact your ViaSlim doctor at any time. Our team is here for you to ensure that you feel comfortable during your treatment and that any questions are answered.
What happens if I forget a dose?
What happens if I forget a dose?
If you accidentally miss 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 the dose on your normal scheduled day and continue as usual. However, if more than 5 days have passed, please wait until the dose day in the following week. For example, if you should have injected on Monday, May 1 but missed your dose, you can safely make up for the injection up to and including Saturday, May 6. If it's past Saturday, you should skip this week's dose and continue as usual on Monday, May 8. If you need further assistance, please contact our medical support team.
What is the viaSlim weight loss program?
What is the viaSlim weight loss program?
viaSlim is a physician-led weight loss program in Switzerland that combines modern medicines with medical care, nutritional advice and health coaching.
We are an approved medical center for overweight medicine (obesity center) and will not only support you digitally, but also locally 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: medical practice and digital care.
Available locally: We're not just an online platform. At viaSlim, there are also on-site consultations in Zurich, for example for medical clarifications or when necessary for health insurance.
Modern support without unnecessary routes: Many appointments can easily take place via video or digitally. This gives you quick support in everyday life without having to drive to a practice every time.
Interdisciplinary team instead of individual appointments: You will be accompanied by a team: doctors, nutritionists and health coaches. This not only gives you a recipe, but a sustainable strategy for diet, behavior and long-term habits.
What does the program include?
What does the program include?
Our weight loss program offers you comprehensive care that goes far beyond mere medication:
Appetite reducing drug: Acts specifically on your feeling of hunger and replicates your satiety hormones so that you feel full longer and avoid cravings.
Discreet drug delivery: Your medication is delivered reliably and securely directly to your home — conveniently and discreetly.
Medical consultation: Through continuous medical care, we ensure that the medication works optimally. If you have any questions or potential side effects, our medical team is always available to respond quickly and provide you with support.
Individual nutritional advice: In addition to medical care, our dieticians will guide you on your weight loss journey and offer tailored nutritional and lifestyle support
Access to the viaSlim app: With the free viaSlim app Do you always have your entire weight loss program in your pocket 100% digital, safe and easy.
Direct contact with your treatment team:
Chat function for quick questions
Video consultations with doctors, nutritionists and health coaches
All appointments and recommendations clearly arranged in one place
Keep an eye on your progress at any time
Documenting your development
Smart features such as Real-Time Meal Detection
Always keep an eye on your weight data
Holistic support
Our health coaches and nutritionists will guide you with a scientifically based learning curriculum, which was 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. Exchange ideas with like-minded people, share successes and stay motivated even in difficult phases. It's easier to stick to it together
The result: A genuine all-round carefree package that supports you medically, emotionally and in everyday life — so that you can achieve your goals sustainably and with good guidance.
Is there a minimum contract period?
Is there a minimum contract period?
There is none Minimum contract period, which means that you can cancel at any time before your next payment. We will stop all future payments and orders.
Why is the viaSlim weight loss program better than the medication alone?
Why is the viaSlim weight loss program better than the medication alone?
The viaSlim weight loss program offers significantly better results than taking the medication alone. The reason for this is the comprehensive care and support that the program provides. Studies show that people who seek regular medical advice, health coaching, and a supportive community in addition to medication lose significantly more weight than those who only use the medication. With viaSlim, you not only get the medication, but also the structured support to achieve long-term success and maximize your weight loss.
Is there a minimum contract period?
Is there a minimum contract period?
There is none Minimum contract period, which means that you can cancel at any time before your next payment. We will stop all future payments and orders.
How much does the program cost?
How much does the program cost?
With viaSlim, you have two transparent models, depending on whether your health insurance company covers the treatment or whether you want to pay for it yourself.
- The basic insurance model (via health insurance)
This model is suitable for you if you have a BMI over 28 and meets the medical requirements.
What is covered?
Medical consultations on site and via video during therapy
Dietary consultations
These services are provided by your basic insurance settled.
Important:
The reimbursement of costs is usually a one-time on-site consultation in Zurich (Asylstrasse 104) necessary. The If suitable for you, we will reimburse you for the cost of medicines with the health insurance company , you don't have to worry about anything. - The self-payer model
Start the best price-performance weight loss program in Switzerland now, just 299CHF per month including medication. No hidden costs — Prescription, medical care, shipping & increasing doses* included
Here's how it works: After your first payment and the program starts, you will receive every 28 days: 299 CHF calculated. The medication is delivered directly to your home. There is no minimum term, you can cancel your next order anytime before the next payment date.
*Please note that this applies to the standard dosing schedule. Doctors may prescribe a higher dose if you have taken the medication before. If you want to increase your dosage (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 is paramount to us. That is why we offer a 28-day money-back guarantee for all our patients in the self-pay model to start our treatment plan as part of the weight loss program - in case you are unable to continue due to side effects or a change in your health situation.To avoid waste of medication and ensure responsible use, the warranty is valid under the following conditions:
- It relates exclusively to the entry-level treatment plan, a refund is not possible for higher dosage levels.
- The warranty only applies if you the treatment due to side effects or medical reasons must cancel.
The refund request must:
- Within 28 days be placed after your first prescription order
- And before you ship your second scheduled delivery Get in with us
The warranty can once per patient If you think you're eligible, simply contact our support team — we'll empathize with you through the next steps.
When does health insurance cover medication costs?
When does health insurance cover medication costs?
Health insurance only covers the costs of modern weight-loss drugs under clearly defined medical conditions.
It is possible to cover the costs of the medication if:
- your BMI over 35 Read
or - your BMI over 28 Read and You at least a weight-related concomitant illness have
e.g. high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, or elevated blood lipid levels
Additionally important: In these cases, a On-site consultation in Zurich (Asylstrasse 104) needful
The best part: viaSlim takes care of everything: We will check your requirements, compile all necessary documents and take over the entire cost reimbursement process for yourself. You will be guided step by step
How do I start the program?
How do I start the program?
After you complete the medical questionnaire on our website, your answers will be reviewed by our system to ensure your eligibility for our program. If this is positive, your journey can start with viaSlim! You book the first appointment with your doctor via video consultation. We also recommend taking a blood sample, which you can do at one of our numerous laboratory centers across Switzerland or from a family doctor.
Do I need a special scale for the viaSlim program?
Do I need a special scale for the viaSlim program?
No a special scale is not absolutely necessary. Wir recommending However, the use of a modern body analysis scaleto be able to assess your progress as precisely and individually as possible.
Why a body composition scale is useful: Such a scale not only measures your weight, but also other values such as body fat, muscle mass and water content. This information helps our treatment team understand your progress medically based to assess and optimally adapt your therapy if necessary.
Our recommendation from viaSlim: You can of course use your own scale. Optionally, we also offer you a modern smart scale from Withings On for once 149 CHF. This resulted in an automatic transfer of the measurement values, including seamless integration into your treatment process. The scale Belongs to you and can continue to be used even after the program
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 program isn't for me?
What if the program isn't for me?
If the prescription medication is not suitable for you, we will refund you the amount immediately. You can stop the program 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, if you have taken out the family doctor model or HMO with your health insurance company. In this case, we need a referral from your family doctor. However, you can register with us in advance, because after registration, we will receive a corresponding form which you can send to your family doctor. With a telephone model (“Telmed”), you would have to ask your insurance company to approve the assignment to us in advance (focus on obesity medicine). However, many policies include free choice of doctor, so you can easily make an appointment with us directly, either online or by telephone
Is a laboratory test required?
Is a laboratory test required?
Yes, to participate in the viaSLIM program, we need a current laboratory test including a complete blood count, lipid profile, TSH and HbA1c and must not be older than six months.
The laboratory test can be carried out by your family doctor and the result can then be sent to viaslim@hin.ch be transmitted. Alternatively, we offer blood collection at one of our partner locations. Our partner locations can be found 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 pass on the appointment to other patients.
You can easily cancel via:
📞 Phone: +41 79 604 9843
📧 Email: care@viaslim.ch
💻 Right 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 not cancelled in time or unexcused will be charged with a conversion fee: This lump sum compensation is currently: CHF 50.— for appointments in the area of nutritional counseling, health coaching and CHF 75.— for medical consultations.
How can I make an appointment?
How can I make an appointment?
At the moment, we can still offer you vacant treatment places. If you need urgent advice, don't hesitate to contact us directly, we'll help you as soon as possible.
With viaSlim, appointments are made in several steps to ensure that you receive the best possible support:
Before you can book your initial consultation, please submit your details via our quiz enter. This helps us to check your suitability for therapy and offer you an optimal treatment plan.
1. After successful indication testing. You can make an appointment for your initial consultation directly via our digital booking form.
2. Free initial telephone consultation: If you have any questions in advance, you can book a non-binding 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 registration, you can also manage and book your appointments directly in our viaSlim app, conveniently and flexibly from anywhere.
Which means of payment are there?
Which means of payment are there?
As with every doctor's visit in Switzerland, patients in the basic insurance model are billed using the basic insurance model. For this purpose, the services are billed directly to your health insurance company.
With the self-payment model, we allow you to conveniently pay online with a credit card. As a subscription service, we make sure you don't have to worry about running out of medication. After you register, we will charge your card regularly, depending on the treatment prescribed. Your medication is delivered by our shipping partner, so you don't have to worry about delivery.
When will the monthly payment be charged?
When will the monthly payment be charged?
After the initial payment and shipping of your order, your next payment is automatically charged 28 days later to ensure continuous supply. For every additional order placed on your prescription, payment will be charged every 28 days. If you need to postpone your next payment, contact our team via the contact form.
What about the notice period?
What about the notice period?
You can cancel anytime before your next payment. We will stop all future payments and orders. Please note that the processing time can take 1-2 days. To cancel your subscription in time, please let our team know a few days before your next payment date if you would like to cancel.
How do I get the medication?
How do I get the medication?
Our partner pharmacy will send you the medication directly to your home or to an address of your choice on a monthly basis. We deliver in refrigerated packages to ensure 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 have had your initial consultation with one of our doctors. If the doctor determines that the treatment is right for you and that there are no further questions unanswered, you will receive your treatment plan. Once you've reviewed and confirmed your plan, your order will be sent to the pharmacy. Our partner pharmacy packs your medication and usually sends it to our patients as quickly as possible.