Dutch Health Care

Dutch health care is one of the best in the world. Regular check-ups for babies and children are provided by the state and there is an insurance plan for everyone.

The basic system begins with verzekering or insurance; often provided through an employer.

Once insured, a huisarts, or GP, is chosen as a family doctor. Your huisarts (GP) is your first point of contact for any and all illnesses, excepting emergencies, and your huisarts will direct you to specialists as needed.

Children are given basic care and vaccinations via the Consultatiebureau (under 4 years of age) or the jeugdarts (4-18 years of age), but in case of illnesses they should visit their huisarts.

The Dutch Dairy Association publishes an online magazine in English about nutrition on: www.nutritionmagazine.nl.

• Influenza A virus
  The Hague and surrounding region are prepared to deal with a possible outbreak of Influenza A through the Public Health Department (GGD), GP practices, emergency services, hospitals and more.

• Doctors and Dentists
  Which doctor when?
  
• Treatment Outside Office Hours
  For emergency medical matters, phone 070 346 9669 for treatment by a GP weekdays between 17.00 - 8.00 hrs. and on weekends and holidays.
• Health Insurance
  Health insurance in the Netherlands and a link to an explanation of the new law effective in 2006.
• Pharmacy system
  Prescription drugs and the pharmacy system in the Netherlands.
• Hospitals and Clinics
  Hospitals and Clinics in The Hague.
• Pregnancy and Birth
  Having a baby in the Netherlands.
• Juvenile Health
  Care for older children (4-18 years of age) in The Netherlands.
• Special Help
  Addressing special needs in health care in The Hague.

More information on external websites

• Being Healthy and Staying Healthy: Booklet on the national vision on health and prevention in the Netherlands from the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport.
• Medical information for expats in The Hague: www.care4expats.nl.