In the Netherlands, the healthcare system is well-organized, but it may work differently than you’re used to. Before you go to the hospital or a specialist, there are important steps you must take.

1. Start With the General Practitioner (Huisarts)

In the Netherlands, the huisarts (GP) is your first point of contact for all health problems.
You must register with a GP near your home — even if you’re healthy — so you’re ready in case you need care.

What the GP does:

Handles regular checkups, prescriptions, and minor issues
Refers you to a specialist if needed
Coordinates your medical file

You cannot go directly to a specialist or hospital without a referral (except in emergencies).

2. Emergency Situations (Spoed)

If you have a life-threatening situation:

Call 112 for an ambulance
Go to the Spoedeisende Hulp (Emergency Room) of a hospital

For urgent but not life-threatening problems outside office hours, call the huisartsenpost (after-hours GP service). They will assess your symptoms and decide if you need to come in.

3. Bring These to Every Visit

When you go to the doctor or hospital, always bring:

Your Dutch health insurance card or policy number
Your ID or passport
Your BSN number

Hospitals will ask for your insurance details and BSN at the reception.

4. What Is Covered?

GP visits are always 100% covered
Hospital visits and tests (e.g. blood tests, scans) are paid by your insurance — but may fall under your deductible (eigen risico)

You’ll receive a bill only if:

You are uninsured
You use care not covered by your plan

5. Prescriptions and Pharmacies

Prescriptions from a GP or hospital are sent directly to a pharmacy (apotheek).
Most basic medicines are covered, but some require a small co-payment.