Healthcare in the Netherlands
Ece Karamagara — April, 2023
One of the first things you need to do before you come to Netherlands is to get a health insurance. You can either purchase a Dutch health insurance policy or use your existing policy from your home country, as long as it meets certain requirements depending on your country. Once you have insurance coverage, you can access a range of healthcare services in Maastricht and throughout the Netherlands.
It’s important to note that one of the most important aspects of accessing healthcare in the Netherlands is finding a family doctor, or “huisarts” in Dutch. A family doctor is a general practitioner who provides primary care services, such as check-ups, referrals to specialists, and prescriptions. You can use https://mymaastricht.nl/city-map/health/family-doctors/ to search for a family doctor in your area. Once you have found a family doctor, you can make an appointment by calling their office directly. Many family doctors in the Netherlands operate on an appointment-only basis, so it’s important to plan ahead and schedule appointments in advance.
When you visit your family doctor, you will need to bring your health insurance card and identification, such as a passport or ID card. Your doctor will then conduct an initial consultation and provide a referral if necessary. It’s important to note that in many cases, you will need a referral from a GP in order to access specialist care.
In addition to finding a family doctor, there are several other resources available to help you navigate the healthcare system in the Netherlands. The website https://mymaastricht.nl/health/ provides information on healthcare services specifically for international students, including how to find a doctor and what to do in case of a medical emergency.
In Maastricht, there are several medical centers and hospitals where you can receive care, including the Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+). The MUMC+ is a large academic medical center that provides a wide range of medical services, including specialized care in areas such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. However, keep in mind that you would need to visit your GP first before seeing a specialist.
Overall, healthcare in the Netherlands is known for its high quality and accessibility, and as a student in Maastricht, you will have access to comprehensive medical care. By purchasing health insurance and familiarizing yourself with the healthcare system in the Netherlands, you can ensure that you are prepared to access the care you need during your stay.
