The Swiss institutional framework allows for the active participation of citizens in democratic life. However, its modalities deserve to be better known in order to be better mastered, in particular with a view to transmitting a scientific message to the political world. This article focuses on the various democratic tools and the evolution of their use over time on health issues, since the birth of modern Switzerland. It highlights the increase in the number of optional referendums and popular initiatives over the past 35 years on health topics, reflecting the concerns of the population. But for what effects? There are many avenues for reflection that are open.