Information on the Dutch Health Insurance in 2013 [Health]

The medical system in the Netherlands is of very high quality, that is why they are in the top 5 best medical care countries in the world. Health care in The Netherlands is a very relevant item of discussion since many changes have occurred over the last decade.

Especially, over the past years, the Dutch health care system has changed quite radically. For people in The Netherlands, it is mandatory by law to have a standard health Insurance (zorgverzekering). This is called the “basisverzekering” or base level insurance. If someone chooses not to be insured, he/she will run the risk of getting a fine and eventually be forced to get an insurance. Luckily, everyone in The Netherlands is free of choosing their own health insurer (zorgverzekeraar).

The standard Dutch Health insurance covers the most important medical care, these include: visits to the general physician (GP), hospital operation & transportation by Ambulance, dental care for children (until 18), prescription of medicines and other aids (i.e. hearing aids). This so called basic package (basispakket) is altered by the government each year, to make health care in the Netherlands of good quality but still affordable.

The average costs for a basic health insurance (basis zorgverzekering) is approximately 110 Euros per month. Besides that one can choose for an enhanced coverage of risks, via so called additional health care (aanvullende zorgverzekeringen). This can be a wise option, for example, if someone needs regular dental care.

It is mandatory to get an insurance if you are in The Netherlands for four months after arrival. A Dutch insurance company will accept you and cover you for the basic package, regardless of your health or age. It is even possible to apply for so called “zorgtoeslag”, this is a allowance one can get from the government if you income is below a certain minimum. You can check the Dutch governmental website for this: rijksoverheid.nl/zorgverzekering or belastingdienst.nl

Before you attempt to apply for a health insurance, there is something you must know:
The so called standard package is exactly the same for each insurer, although the price per month may vary. Therefore, it is important to do a sharp and accurate comparison between different insurances. If you are planning to work or stay in the Netherlands in 2013 for longer than 4 months, it is advisable to look on the internet for different websites, try searching for “zorgverzekering 2013”. There are various (English) websites to help you with this.

by Jasmijn