Healthcare in Zeeland

Anyone living and working in the Netherlands, must take out health insurance. This also applies to all internationals (both EU and non-EU citizens) in the Netherlands, and this must be arranged within the first four months after arrival. To do so, you need a BSN (citizen service number) and you must be registered with the municipality where you will be living. The mandatory basic health insurance covers standard healthcare services, including:

• Your general practitioner (GP)
• Hospital treatment
• Prescription medications

What is covered by basic health insurance is decided by the government and can change each year. If you require additional care, such as physiotherapy or dental treatment, you can opt to take out extra cover. Whatever you choose, you’ll pay a monthly premium and an annual excess. Your ‘excess’ is the costs you cover out of your own pocket. Read more about health insurance in the Netherlands via the zorgverzekeringslijn.

Exceptions to the Dutch health insurance requirement apply to international students who are only studying in the Netherlands and do not work part-time. Also exempt are internationals who work for an employer in another country and are posted to the Netherlands with an A1 certificate issued by their home country. These internationals remain insured under their home country’s health insurance through an S1 or E106 form completed by their home insurer. This rule applies to internationals from the EU, EEA and Switzerland. It is recommended to apply for an EHIC card through the home health insurer, as this is a personal card.

If you’re experiencing health concerns, visit your general practitioner (GP) first. Zeeland has many GP surgeries, but some have a waiting list for new patients. On www.zorgkaartnederland.nl, you can search for general practitioners (GPs) in your area. Then check the GP’s website to see whether they are accepting new patients. And while many GPs speak English, be sure to check this in advance.

If you need to be seen out of hours due to an emergency situation that isn’t life threatening, call the after-hours GP service (huisartsenpost). Zeeland International Center provides a useful list with all kinds of (emergency) contact numbers.

Your GP may refer you to one of Zeeland’s hospitals. The province has two hospitals on four sites: Adrz in Goes and Vlissingen and ZorgSaam in Terneuzen and Oostburg. Both hospitals have an accident and emergency (A&E) department.

If you require dental care, you can register at a dental practice. Please note:

• Care for patients aged up to 18 is covered by their basic health insurance.
• If you’re aged over 18, you usually pay out of pocket for dental care unless you take out extra cover.

• Compare health insurance providers and choose the one that’s right for you
• Register with a GP surgery and dentist
• Ask your employer or employment agency for support