Expatriating to the Netherlands means choosing a country whose healthcare system is consistently ranked among the best in Europe. However, for a French person accustomed to Social Security, the Dutch model is a real departure. The system is based on a single structure. Private health insurance is compulsory. The general practitioner, known as the Huisarts, plays a central role: he or she is the essential point of contact for any healthcare pathway.
The basis of the system: compulsory insurance (Basisverzekering)
Unlike France, there is no clear distinction between public and private systems. A single system governs basic coverage: the Zorgverzekeringswet (Zvw).
The obligation to take out insurance applies from the moment you move to the Netherlands. As soon as you obtain your Burgerservicenummer (BSN), you are obliged to take out basic health insurance(Basisverzekering) with a Dutch insurer. You have four months in which to do this. It is essential to obtain health cover and avoid any penalties.
This basic insurance covers essential care: consultations with general practitioners and specialists (on referral), hospitalization, emergencies, maternity, and dental care for minors. Nevertheless, it is crucial to note that reimbursements are not always full.
The system is based on the franchise concept known as Eigen Risico. The cost of care is made up of a fixed monthly premium, usually around €100, and a mandatory annual deductible. In 2025, this deductible will be €385. This is the amount you have to pay yourself before the insurance begins to reimburse your healthcare expenses.
To remember: The good news is that consultations with general practitioners are exempt from this deductible. On the other hand, outpatient examinations (X-rays, tests) and specialist consultations are subject to the deductible.
Supplementary private insurance
Although the Dutch system requires you to take out local basic insurance(Basisverzekering) within four months of your arrival,international health insurance remains a relevant solution for expatriates seeking more comprehensive coverage and greater mobility. This option offers the advantage of not being limited by the network of local insurers, and can effectively fill the gaps left by basic insurance, particularly for specialized care.
It often provides access to a global network of service providers, ensures repatriation and medical evacuation in the event of an emergency, and provides essential services such as medical teleconsultation(Virtual Doctor) and access to a second medical opinion from a renowned specialist. Whether you choose cover from the first euro or in addition to CFE (Caisse des Français à l’Étranger), international insurance guarantees peace of mind should you need care outside the Netherlands or for services not covered by the local system.
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Le Huisarts: your doorman and medical coordinator
The general practitioner(Huisarts) is the true “guardian of the temple” of the Dutch system. He or she is your single point of entry for almost all your non-emergency medical needs.
- A central role and filtered access: except in cases of vital emergency, it is impossible to consult a specialist or be admitted to hospital without areferral from your Huisarts or the Huisartsenpost (the doctor on call evenings and weekends). The Huisartsenpost coordinates care and has a wider scope of intervention than its French counterpart (including minor gynecological and pediatric procedures).
- Adapting to the consultation: The format of consultations is often a point of surprise for the French. They are brief, lasting around 15 minutes, and generally focus on one problem at a time [Source: Document]. If you have several concerns, the local practice is to ask for two slots in a row.
- Themedical assistant(Doktersassistent) also plays a key role. Trained to answer initial calls, she applies questioning protocols, provides basic advice and carries out certain technical procedures, thus optimizing the doctor’s time.
Culture of care and effective communication
The Dutch system promotes a culture of patient responsibility and shared decision-making. To get the best care, you need to be proactive.
For effective communication, French-speaking healthcare professionals recommend :
- Be precise: List your symptoms and history in a factual manner.
- Use the language of concern: If you feel that your symptoms or those of your child are being underestimated, don’t hesitate to use impact phrases to clearly express your concern, for example: ” I’m really very worried ” or ” My child is really not in his normal state, his energy level is very low “.
- Focus on pain management: This is often the most effective way to get a quick response.
Family health: children and adolescents
For expatriate families, childcare is free up to the age of 18 and exempt from deductibles(Eigen Risico).
- Monitoring young children: In addition to the Huisarts, parents need to familiarize themselves with the Consultatiebureau (equivalent to the PMI). This is the essential place for development monitoring, growth charts (including for children of foreign nationality) and the vaccination calendar.
- Teenage autonomy: The Dutch system grants a great deal of autonomy to young people. From the age of 12, the consent of both parents and child is required for treatment. At 16, children are considered responsible for their own health, and confidentiality is established: doctors are no longer obliged to inform parents.
The Dutch healthcare system is of the highest quality, but its operation requires good preparation and cultural adaptation. By understanding the pivotal role of your Huisarts and the rules of compulsory insurance, you’ll be armed to navigate your new care pathways efficiently.
Need Francophone support?
Initiatives like La Maison de la Santé Amsterdam exist to support you. This grouping of French-speaking healthcare practitioners can help you take care of your health, and help you understand and navigate a culturally different healthcare system.
