Healthcare

Every resident of the Netherlands over the age of 18 must take out basic health insurance (basisverzekering) under the Health Insurance Act (Zorgverzekeringswet / ZVW). This must be done within 4 months of registering as a resident. Failure to insure results in fines and back-billing by the CAK (government body responsible for the uninsured). Children under 18 are covered free under their parents' policy.

In the Netherlands, the huisarts (GP/family doctor) is the cornerstone of the healthcare system and the gatekeeper to all specialist care. Register with a local GP immediately upon arrival — most practices have a catchment area so you must choose one near your home. GP visits are free (covered by basic insurance with no eigen risico applied). You cannot access a specialist without a GP referral except in emergencies.

The basic ZVW package covers essential medical care but excludes several items that many expats consider important: dental care for adults, physiotherapy (beyond a limited number of sessions), eyeglasses, contact lenses, and alternative medicine. Supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering) fills these gaps at an additional cost and can be added to any basic policy.

Mental health care (GGZ — geestelijke gezondheidszorg) is partially covered by basic insurance. Mild to moderate mental health conditions are referred by the GP to a mental health specialist (POH-GGZ) embedded in the GP practice. Severe mental health conditions are referred to specialist GGZ providers. Wait times for specialist mental health care can be long — private providers offer faster access at additional cost.

Emergency care in the Netherlands is accessed via 112 (ambulance and hospital) or the out-of-hours GP service (HAP). Emergency departments are for genuine emergencies only — non-urgent cases presenting at the ED will be redirected to the HAP. Pharmacies (apotheken) are plentiful in all cities and dispense prescription and over-the-counter medications. Most are open Monday–Friday 8:30am–5:30pm with a duty pharmacy available outside hours.