Healthcare in the Netherlands is known for its high quality and comprehensive services. However, the system works differently than in many other countries. Understanding how it operates will help you access care efficiently and avoid confusion.
General Practitioner (GP): your first point of contact
- Register with a GP as soon as you arrive in the Netherlands
- Your GP is your main point of contact for almost all medical needs, including minor injuries, mental health issues, and routine check-ups.
- There is currently a shortage of GPs in the Netherlands, and some GP practices are not accepting new patients. We therefore recommend registering with a GP as soon as you have your BSN, even if you do not need medical care yet. You may be placed on a waiting list, but registering early means you are more likely to have a GP when you need one
- You need a referral from your GP to see a specialist or receive hospital care, including specialized mental health care (except in emergencies).
- Choose a GP in your area. Utilize by entering your postal code and selecting 'huisarts' to find a list of GPs nearby. Students living in the South-East Brabant region (including Eindhoven) can also use to find local GP practices and check whether they are currently accepting new patient registrations.
- GP care is covered by Dutch health insurance, but make sure you are properly insured and bring your health insurance details to your appointment.
- Without valid health insurance, healthcare costs in the Netherlands can be very high.
Referrals and hospital visits
- Your GP provides a referral if you need to see a specialist or visit a hospital.
- Most students use public hospitals, but private hospitals also exist.
- Always bring your health insurance card to any hospital or specialist appointment.
- Important: Please be aware that waiting times can be long, especially for mental healthcare. It is important to seek support in an early stage and reach out for help when needed.
Mental health care
- Your GP can refer you to a psychologist, psychiatrist, or mental health clinic.
- Mental health care may be fully or partially covered, depending on your insurance policy. Your annual deductible (eigen risico) may apply.
- GP visits are exempt from the deductible.
- Some healthcare services may require additional insurance coverage. Please check whether your insurance covers the care you may need.
Preventive care
- Dutch GPs focus on preventive care, including vaccinations, health screenings, and lifestyle advice.
- Some preventive services may be free under public health insurance; check your coverage.
Pharmacies (apotheek)
- Prescriptions from your GP are filled at local pharmacies.
- Some over-the-counter medications, like minor painkillers, can be bought at supermarkets or drugstores (e.g., Kruidvat, Etos, Trekpleister).
- Not all medications available in other countries are available in the Netherlands. If you use specific medication, check its availability in the Netherlands before leaving your home country.
Emergency / After-Hours Care (Spoedpost)
- For urgent medical care outside regular GP hours, such as evenings, nights, weekends, and public holidays, contact your local GP out-of-hours service (huisartsenpost). Always call first so a healthcare professional can assess your situation and advise you on the next steps. If someone鈥檚 life is in immediate danger, call 112.
- For students living in Eindhoven: you can contact the Spoedpost at Catharina Hospital, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, +31 88 876 51 51.
- Have your health insurance card and Citizen Service Number (BSN) ready when you call or visit.
- For an acute mental health crisis in Eindhoven and the surrounding area: your GP or another healthcare professional can contact GGzE Crisis Care.
- If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or are worried about someone who may be suicidal, you can contact anonymously by phone or online chat.
Questions about your health insurance
If you have questions about your health insurance, your coverage, or whether specific healthcare costs are covered, contact your health insurance provider directly. They can explain your policy and advise you on your individual situation.
If you are comparing insurance options, contact the insurance providers directly for information about their coverage, costs, and conditions.
Tips for internationals
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Make a list of local GPs and pharmacies near your housing.
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Understand the referral process to avoid surprises when seeing specialists.
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Keep your insurance card with you at all times