Healthcare & Health Insurance in The Netherlands
Summary: Digital Nomads in Netherlands share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Netherlands, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.
What are healthcare services like in The Netherlands?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in The Netherlands, they replied:
"The Netherlands has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all Dutch citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally high, with a focus on preventive care and access to specialists. Foreign residents are also eligible to use the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Expats in The Netherlands can use the public healthcare system by registering with their local municipality and obtaining a health insurance card. This card allows them to access the same services as Dutch citizens, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital care," explained one digital nomad living in Netherlands.
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What is the quality of medical care in The Netherlands like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in The Netherlands, they replied:
"The Netherlands has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides high-quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a universal healthcare system that is funded by taxes and provides access to a wide range of medical services, including preventive care, primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. The Dutch healthcare system is highly rated and is known for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Patients have the right to choose their own doctor and can access medical services through a variety of providers, including public and private hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. The Dutch government also provides financial assistance to those who cannot afford medical care," remarked one member in Netherlands.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in The Netherlands?
"Healthcare and health insurance in The Netherlands are generally considered to be quite affordable. The government subsidizes healthcare costs for citizens, and the majority of people are covered by a basic health insurance plan. This plan covers most medical costs, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs. Private health insurance plans are also available, but they tend to be more expensive and offer more comprehensive coverage," explained one digital nomad living in Netherlands.
What are emergency services like in The Netherlands?
When we asked about emergency services, members in The Netherlands wrote:
"Emergency services in The Netherlands are highly efficient and reliable. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 112, the national emergency number. This number is free of charge and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones. The operator will ask for the location of the emergency and the type of assistance needed. The operator will then dispatch the appropriate emergency services to the scene," commented a person living in Netherlands.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"The cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam are among the top in the Netherlands for offering a wide selection of medical specialists. Other cities such as The Hague, Utrecht, and Leiden are also home to a varied range of medical professionals. The North Holland province, in particular, has a notable amount of medical specialists due to its close proximity to Amsterdam, including several leading university medical centers. Additionally, the southwestern area of the country, including the cities of Dordrecht, Tilburg, and Breda, are well-known for their excellent selection of medical practitioners," explained one digital nomad living in Netherlands.
Are common prescription medications available in The Netherlands?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in The Netherlands. Most medications can be obtained from pharmacies, either with a prescription from a doctor or without one. In some cases, a doctor's prescription is required for certain medications, such as those containing narcotics or controlled substances. In addition, some medications may require special authorization from the Dutch Health Care Authority," commented a person living in Netherlands.
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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in The Netherlands?
"The Netherlands is home to some of the best medical facilities and care in Europe, boasting advanced technology and highly trained, experienced medical professionals. The quality of care is consistently high, with a focus on patient safety and preventative health measures. Furthermore, the country offers comprehensive health insurance coverage and easy access to quality medical services," remarked one member in Netherlands.
As a foreigner living in The Netherlands, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in The Netherlands, you will have access to public healthcare. The healthcare system in The Netherlands is known for its high quality and is ranked among the best in the world. The public healthcare system is funded by taxes and provides basic healthcare services such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs. The system is also designed to provide preventive care and health promotion services. The Dutch government also provides subsidies for private health insurance, which can be used to cover additional services such as dental care and physiotherapy," said one digital nomad in Netherlands.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in The Netherlands if they have access to public healthcare in The Netherlands. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in The Netherlands. The healthcare system has had to adapt quickly to the changing needs of the population, and has done so with great success. The government has provided additional funding to ensure that the healthcare system can cope with the increased demand, and has also implemented measures to ensure that the system is as efficient as possible. The healthcare system has also been able to provide a high level of care to those who need it, and has been able to respond quickly to the changing needs of the population. In addition, the healthcare system has been able to provide support to those who are vulnerable, such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. Overall, the healthcare system in The Netherlands has been able to respond effectively to the pandemic, and has been able to provide a high level of care to those who need it," wrote one digital nomad living in Netherlands.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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Netherlands Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Netherlands on our Netherlands forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
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Help others in Netherlands by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Netherlands.
Digital Nomads in Netherlands offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Netherlands.
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