Health Care in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, healthcare is GP-centered. The General Practitioner (GP) is a healthcare specialist and your first point of contact for most health issues, both physical and mental health. You cannot go directly to a specialist; your GP provides referrals when needed.

Contact your GP for:

• Common illnesses (fever, flu, minor injuries, allergies, etc.)
• Prescriptions or medication advice
• Mental health concerns (stress, anxiety, depression)
• Referrals to specialists or hospitals

Examples:
If you have a fever and need advice, call your GP.
Feeling stressed? Your GP can refer you to a counselor.

Important: Register with a GP near your address soon after arrival in the Netherlands.

For registration at the GP, bring the following documents/information:

• Personal information: name, address, date of birth, BSN
• Health insurance information: policy number and/or insurance pass
• Dutch ID-card

If your study location is Apeldoorn, you can request assistance with making appointments and registering at a GP medical practice by contacting the Front Desk. Our institute has established arrangements with selected medical practices in Apeldoorn. This service is currently only available for students based in Apeldoorn. If you are studying in Amsterdam, you can find a GP near you through: Zorgkaart Nederland - Huisarts - Amsterdam

Once you have found a GP, contact or e-mail their medical practice to enquire if they are still taking new clients.

Cost: GP visits are free of charge under Dutch healthcare rules. However, you may need to pay for medication from the pharmacy. Your pharmacy will inform you of the costs involved.

Tip: We recommend preparing for each doctor’s visit by writing down your questions and concerns in advance. If you would like additional support, you are welcome to bring someone with you to your GP appointment.

Dutch GPs are known for their direct communication style. While this may feel different at first, it reflects a broader Dutch cultural trait of getting straight to the heart of the matter.
 

There are situations where contacting your GP is not necessary:

• Life-threatening emergencies: Call 112 or go to the hospital Emergency Department (Spoedeisende Hulp).
• Minor illnesses: Mild colds, headaches, or small complaints that can often be managed by yourself.
• Pharmacy advice: For non-prescription medication (such as painkillers or cough syrup), visit a pharmacy directly.
• Dental care: Contact a dentist (tandarts) directly, as dental care is not handled by GPs. To find a dentist in your area, visit Tandarts.nl.
• Vaccinations: Travel vaccines and most preventive vaccinations are arranged through the municipal health service (GGD) or specialised clinics.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): For confidential and free STI testing, contact the local GGD sexual health clinic. Visit the GGD website for more information on STIs and ordering STI Home Tests.
• Physiotherapy: In many cases, you can contact a physiotherapist directly without a GP referral (check your insurance policy for coverage details).

If you are unsure, contact your GP practice for advice. They can tell you whether you need to make an appointment.

Whether you need a prescription, over-the-counter medication, or emergency supplies, here’s what you should know:

• Find a pharmacy by online here or ask your GP for guidance.
• For emergencies, use the emergency pharmacy locator: Dienstapotheek
• Regular opening hours: 09:00-18:00 
• Emergency pharmacies: Available outside regular hours.
• Bring your prescription and insurance card.

The following over-the-counter medications can be purchased without prescription: 

• Pain relievers, such as Paracetamol and Ibuprofen
• Cold and flu remedies
• Allergy medications: nasal sprays, tablets
• Digestive aids
• First aid supplies: bandages, medical tapes
• Vitamins and supplements
• Personal care products: skincare, hygiene items
• Eye and ear care: eye drops, ear drops, ear plugs

Health insurance is mandatory for everyone living in the Netherlands.

• EU/EEA students: Bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
• Non-EU students: You need private health insurance or Dutch basic health insurance if you are working.

For more information, see: Insurance in the Netherlands.

Eigen Risico (Deductible/Excess Health Insurance)

• Applies to hospital care and specialist treatment.
• Does not apply to GP visits. 

Read more about the Eigen Risico here: Insurance in the Netherlands.

In the Netherlands, hospitals are mainly for specialist care and urgent medical situations. 

Most visits require a referral from your GP, but in life-threatening emergencies, you can go directly. In such cases, call the emergency number 112 for immediate assistance.

Understanding how to pay for healthcare and get your medication in the Netherlands will help you avoid surprises. Procedures differ depending on whether you have Dutch or international insurance.

• Dutch insurance: Direct billing; deductible applies for hospital/specialist care.
• International insurance: Pay upfront and claim reimbursement later. Carefully store all receipts from your medical visits, you will need them for your claim.
• Medication: Prescription required, costs vary.

In urgent or critical situations, it’s important to know the right numbers and services to contact.

• Life-threatening situation: Call 112
• Life-threatening situation (speech or hearing impairment): Call 0800 8112 .
• Suicide Prevention | 113
• Sexual Assault Support Center
• Violence or abuse: Victim Support Netherlands

1. Do I need Dutch health insurance if I already have international coverage?

   If your international policy covers care in the Netherlands, you may not need Dutch insurance. Check your insurance policy for coverage details. If you work, Dutch insurance is mandatory. Read more on health insurance and its requirements here: Insurance in the Netherlands.

2. Can I go straight to a hospital or specialist?

   No. You need a GP referral except in life-threatening emergencies.

3. Are GP visits free?

   Yes. You only pay for medication or specialist treatments.

4. What is “Eigen Risico”?

   A deductible for Dutch insurance. Applies to hospital and specialist care, but not GP visits. Read more here: Insurance in the Netherlands .

5. What if I need urgent medication at night?

   Visit an emergency pharmacy: Dienstapotheek.

6. Where can I get mental health support?

   Start with your GP or school's counseling services.

   - Wittenborg Student Counsellor: Mental Health and Well-Being. 
   - Urgent help, call 113 Suicide Prevention on 0800-0113 or the crisis line on 0900-0113.
   - Need a listening ear for all kinds of issues, big or small: The place for young people to talk 

7. What should I do if I need a doctor outside office hours?

   Call the Huisartsen-spoedpost (Out-of-Hours GP Service). Contact details can be found on your GP medical practice's website.

8. Do I need to make an appointment with my GP?

   Yes, usually by phone. Some GP practices have their own app, allowing you to book appointments online.

9. Can I get over-the-counter medication at the pharmacy?

   Yes, for minor issues. Stronger medication requires a prescription.

10. What happens if I don’t have insurance?

    If you don't have insurance, you pay the full cost of treatment, which can be very expensive.

11. How do I find an English-speaking doctor?

    Most GPs in the Netherlands speak English. Check ZorgkaartNederland to find a GP.

12. What if I need dental care?

    Visit a dental office directly, do not contact the GP. Be aware that dental care is not included in Dutch basic insurance for adults.

13. How do I get emergency mental health help?

    Call 113 Suicide Prevention or 112 if there is immediate danger.

14. Can I use my EHIC for all care?

    Yes, but some costs may need to be paid upfront. Check your insurance policy for coverage details.