Insider's Guide to the Health System in The Netherlands

The Netherlands has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system is called Zorgverzekeringswet (Zvw) and is funded by the government. It covers basic medical care and is available to all citizens and legal residents of the Netherlands. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in The Netherlands. Public hospitals are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in The Netherlands are well-equipped and offer a wide range of services.

The Netherlands also has a private healthcare system, which is funded by private health insurance companies. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, but it offers more choice and flexibility. Expats typically use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in The Netherlands are well-equipped and offer a wide range of services.

The following are some of the most well-known hospitals in The Netherlands:

• Academic Medical Center (AMC) in Amsterdam (public hospital)
• Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam (public hospital)
• Maastricht University Medical Center in Maastricht (public hospital)
• St. Antonius Hospital in Nieuwegein (private hospital)
• Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital in Nijmegen (private hospital)
• Maxima Medical Center in Veldhoven (private hospital)

The most popular private health insurers in The Netherlands are CZ, VGZ, Menzis, and Zilveren Kruis. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans, including basic and comprehensive coverage. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

Insider Tips from Expats in Netherlands: How to Navigate the Health System

"The Netherlands has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides high-quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a universal healthcare system that is funded by taxes and provides access to a wide range of medical services, including preventive care, primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. The Dutch healthcare system is highly rated and is known for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Patients have the right to choose their own doctor and can access medical services through a variety of providers, including public and private hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. The Dutch government also provides financial assistance to those who cannot afford medical care," commented one member living in The Netherlands.

"The Netherlands has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all Dutch citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally high, with a focus on preventive care and access to specialists. Foreign residents are also eligible to use the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Expats in The Netherlands can use the public healthcare system by registering with their local municipality and obtaining a health insurance card. This card allows them to access the same services as Dutch citizens, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital care," commented one member living in The Netherlands.