Dutch healthcare insurance system
In the Netherlands most people are insured for their healthcare costs through the Dutch public healthcare insurance, which is called the 'Zorgverzekering'. They have to pay a monthly contribution to this insurance of about €100 per adult person (children are insured for free). This insurance is part of the social security system. People with a lower income can apply for a healthcare allowance, which will compensate some of the costs.
The Dutch public healthcare insurance system consists of three tiers: basic, additional and exceptional medical care. For the basic and additional medical care an insurance policy needs to be taken out. For the exceptional medical care you will automatically be insured if you meet the criteria.
Basic medical care
Additional medical care
Exceptional medical care (AWBZ)
Basic medical care
Everyone who is ordinarily resident or is employed in the Netherlands is entitled (and therefore, obliged) to take out a Dutch public healthcare insurance, called 'zorgverzekering'. This insurance is also known as 'basisverzekering'. The insurance provides cover for basic medical care, such as a visit to the GP, most hospital treatments and other necessary medical treatment.
Although it is a public health insurance system, it is not free. A substantial monthly insurance premium (around €100) will be charged by the insurance company where you take out your insurance policy. You are entitled to apply for a healthcare allowance ('zorgtoeslag'), a financial contribution towards these costs if you are on a low income. Depending on your income, you could receive up to almost 700 euros a year.
If you are entitled to a Dutch public health insurance you also have the obligation to take out such an insurance. If you do not comply with this obligations you may be fined 130% of the monthly premium over each month you have not been insured, with a maximum of 5 years.
You can take out your zorgverzekering with any Dutch public healthcare insurer. The prices and what is on offer and the service can differ so it is worth to shop around. Useful websites for comparing prices are KiesBeter or Independer (only in Dutch, though).
You might receive a discount through the insurance company related to your host institution or employer. Ask your HR officer for details.
Find out if you have the right (and therefore, obligation) to take out a zorgverzekering.
Additional medical care
Additional private insurance is voluntary and can be taken out on top of your Dutch public healthcare insurance. The cover provided by these packages varies greatly, as do the premiums and any applicable excesses. Supplementary insurance can cover medical care such as dental care, physiotherapy and cover abroad. Any healthcare insurance provider can tell you what your options are.
Exceptional medical care (AWBZ)
The General Exceptional Medical Expenses Act (AWBZ) is a law that ensures that all Dutch residents pay contributions towards exceptional medical expenses, such as care for the disabled which cannot be covered on an individual basis. It is a national insurance scheme and therefore compulsory. The contributions are paid through income tax.
The insurance company where you take out your Dutch public healthcare insurance, covering your basic medical care, will also provide you with AWBZ-related care if necessary.
Read the factsheet on the AWBZ (pdf) for more details.
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