How Dutch Healthcare Works
Understanding the huisarts system, specialists, and emergency care in the Netherlands
The Dutch Healthcare System in Brief
If you've just moved to the Netherlands, the healthcare system may work differently from what you're used to. The good news: it's well-organized, high-quality, and once you understand the basics, easy to navigate.
Health Insurance Is Mandatory
Everyone living or working in the Netherlands must have basic health insurance (basisverzekering). You have 4 months from the date you start working or register at your municipality to get insured. If you miss this deadline, you may face a fine.
Basic insurance costs roughly €120–€150 per month and covers essential care: GP visits, hospital treatment, prescription medication, mental healthcare, and maternity care.
The Huisarts Is the Gatekeeper
The huisarts (family doctor / GP) is the center of Dutch healthcare. Unlike many countries, you cannot go directly to a specialist — your huisarts decides whether you need a referral.
This can be frustrating at first — especially if you're used to booking your own specialist appointments — but the system is designed to prevent unnecessary treatments and keep costs down.
Key things to know about the huisarts:
- GP visits are free (they don't count toward your deductible)
- You must register with a huisarts near your home before you need one
- Appointments are typically 10 minutes — be direct about your concerns
- For urgent but non-emergency situations: call your huisarts first
Specialists and Hospital Care
If your huisarts refers you to a specialist, the costs are covered by your basic insurance — but they do count toward your deductible (eigen risico). You'll typically receive an appointment letter with the date and location.
Emergencies (Spoedeisende Hulp)
For life-threatening emergencies, call 112. For urgent but non-life-threatening situations, call your huisarts or the huisartsenpost (after-hours GP service) at the local number.
Going to the emergency room (spoedeisende hulp / SEH) without a referral is possible, but should only be done for real emergencies. Emergency room costs count toward your deductible.
Basic Insurance vs. Supplementary Insurance
- Basic insurance (basisverzekering): Defined by law, same coverage at every insurer. Covers: GP, hospital, specialists, medication, mental healthcare, maternity care.
- Supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering): Optional. Covers extras like dental care, physiotherapy beyond the basic limit, glasses, and alternative medicine.
Practical Tips
- Register with a huisarts as soon as you arrive — don't wait until you're sick
- Compare insurance plans during the open enrollment period (November–December) each year
- Keep your insurance card (zorgpas) with you — you'll need it at appointments
- Download your insurer's app — most let you check coverage, find providers, and submit claims
- Children under 18 are insured for free and have no deductible