Doctors

Doctors

general practitioner

General practitioner in the Netherlands can perform minor surgeries and pediatric and gynecological examinations do it. Generally, the general practitioner does not offer dental treatments.

Services provided by GP:

medical needs (call 112 in life-threatening cases)

have questions or need advice about health

For physical complaints and or mental health issues

For first aid and minor surgeries

need support and treatment for a chronic illness

For preventive medicine

International non-residents and tourists are able to access doctor services in the Netherlands. However, they will have to pay for the services up front and obtain reimbursement through their own travel medical insurance. Upon receiving an official Dutch residence card, new residents from outside the EU / EEA have the obligation to take out Dutch health insurance within four months. After this, they are able to register and obtain services from a doctor in the Netherlands. New residents from inside the EU / EEA must take out Dutch health insurance if they are working and paying taxes in the Netherlands, or are over the age of 30.

Register with a doctor in the Netherlands

Once you have immigrated and obtained a residence permit, you are free to register with the doctor of your choice in the Netherlands. However, Dutch doctors can refuse patients if they are full or if their accommodation is not close to the office. While a doctor’s name is not mandatory in the Netherlands, we strongly recommend it. To find a suitable doctor in cases where urgency may be needed, as you may get new ones at nearby hospitals. Our recommendation is to register at the GP as soon as possible after the transfer.

Most doctors allow you to register online or in person at the clinic. You must have a valid ID, Citizenship Service (BSN) number and your health insurance details.

Medical professionals in the Netherlands

You need to see a doctor to see a medical specialist in the Netherlands (cardiologist, neurologist, gynecologist, etc.). You must bring this to your doctor during the visit or send it to your insurer to claim a refund. However, because primary care physicians tend to offer a wide range of services, patients are less likely than in other countries to be referred elsewhere or to receive prescription drugs.

Costs of doctors

Costs of appointments and treatment from doctors and specialists in the Netherlands generally receive coverage from health insurance. Mandatory public health insurance in the Netherlands requires everyone to pay an annual contribution (excess fee) towards medical bills.

Costs of doctors and specialists in the Netherlands can be covered in three ways:

The doctor invoices your insurance provider directly, in which case you don’t have to worry about any payment

He sends the bill to you, to forward on to your insurer

He charges you the full costs, which you then need to reclaim from the insurer. You will need an invoice or receipt if this is the case.

It’s worth checking with the doctor beforehand if you need to pay upfront and get a reimbursement. If you see a specialist, you need proof of referral from your doctor to claim the fee from your insurer. Otherwise, you may have to pay the full costs yourself.

Health insurance

The basic Dutch health insurance covers essential medical care such as visits and treatments by a GP, prescriptions and hospital stays. This minimum standard is guaranteed by the Government and also includes midwifery, mental health care and physiotherapy for people with chronic diseases/conditions. You can then customize your health insurance package. Additional services may include acupuncture, homeopathy, orthodontics and dental care.

Those not covered by the Dutch public health scheme, temporary visitors, and residents who want a higher level of coverage, can choose from a number of expat-friendly private health insurers.