Healthcare

During your time as student in the Netherlands, you may find yourself in the situation where you need medical care. This page explains how healthcare works here, what to do in different situations, and how to find a GP (family doctor).

An introduction to Dutch healthcare

First of all, we are proud to let you know that the Dutch healthcare system consistently ranks among the top global healthcare systems, praised for high quality, accessibility, and innovation. The Dutch health care system is based on several principles: access to care for all, solidarity through medical insurance (which is compulsory for all, including international students) and high-quality health care services. That said, it may function differently than what you are used to from the system in your home country, so please read below information carefully.

GP; your first point of contact for medical assistance

A General Practitioner (GP or in Dutch huisarts) will be your first point of contact for all health questions, both mental and physical. 

Your GP can help you with:

• physical and mental health problems;
• (renewal of) prescriptions;
• referral to a specialist and/or hospital;

If you need or want to see a specialist, your GP usually has to refer you. If you go directly to the hospital or specialist without a referral, you may:

• pay a much higher bill, and/or
• experience long waiting times or being turned away

What to expect from a Dutch GP

Dutch GPs are generally careful with tests and medication. This means:

• They may not immediately prescribe antibiotics or other medication.
• They will only refer you to a specialist or run blood tests if there is a good medical reason according to their opinion.
• They may advise you to take paracetamol (acetaminophen), rest for a few days, and come back if your symptoms do not improve.

In some countries, annual check-ups and blood tests for minor complaints are common. In the Netherlands, this is not standard practice. You usually need clear symptoms or a strong medical reason for such tests or referrals.

Urgent care & emergencies

GP’s have fixed opening hours on weekdays that may differ per practice. Outside these hours (evenings, nights, weekends, and public holidays), you can contact the: Huisartsenpost (HAP) – an after-hours GP clinic for urgent but not life-threatening problems. If your condition is not urgent, the HAP will refer you back to your GP.

More information on the HAP’s in the Rotterdam region can be found on Huisartsenposten Rijnmond and for The Hague on Huisartsenspoedpost Hadoks.

For life-threatening situations always call 112!
Examples: serious accidents, severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, heavy bleeding.

Find your GP before a medical emergency occurs

We highly recommend you to register with a GP soon after your arrival in the Netherlands and/or save one (or more) of the healthcare professionals below in your phone.

Other GP’s in the Netherlands

You can also search for another GP in Rotterdam via this website. The site is in Duch, but by entering your postal code or city of residence you can find nearest doctor's practices. Next, you can contact the practice directly to ask how to register.

Please note:

• Many practices in the area are full and may not be able to accept new patients.
• Some practices do not accept foreign (home-country) insurance. You may need Dutch basic health insurance or be prepared to pay first and claim reimbursement from your insurer later.

Insurance for international students

Please note that is very important – and mandatory - to take out appropriate health insurance, to avoid paying for unforeseen medical costs yourself and risking a fine. We recommend arranging your insurance prior to arrival.