Health Care in The Hague
Summary: Learn about the health system in The Hague: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in The Hague.
The Hague has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system is called Zorgverzekeringswet (Zvw) and is available to all citizens and residents of the Netherlands. It is also available to foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, who are legally residing in the Netherlands.
Netherlands's Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in the Netherlands is funded by taxes and provides basic healthcare services, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs. It is generally recommended for minor medical issues and routine check-ups. For serious medical emergencies and major surgery, people typically recommend using private hospitals in The Hague. Public hospitals in The Hague are generally well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. The wait times can be long, however, and the quality of care may vary.
Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in the Netherlands. However, many expats opt to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they tend to have shorter wait times and higher quality of care. Private hospitals in The Hague are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. They also offer a wide range of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in The Hague
- The Hague Medical Center: This is a private hospital located in the city center of The Hague. It offers a wide range of medical services, including general medicine, cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
- The Hague University Medical Center: This is a public hospital located in the city center of The Hague. It offers a wide range of medical services, including general medicine, cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
- The Hague Medical Center Westeinde: This is a private hospital located in the city center of The Hague. It specializes in cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
Emergency Services in The Hague
The Hague has a comprehensive emergency services system. Ambulance services are available and can be called by dialing 112. Ambulances typically arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the severity of the emergency.
Health Insurance Companies in The Hague
The most popular private health insurers in The Hague are CZ, VGZ, and Menzis. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although there are also specialized expat health insurance providers available.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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