Doctor

Doctor in the Netherlands: what you need to know

In the Netherlands, the general practitioner (GP), known as a huisarts, is usually your first point of contact for health problems and medical questions.

You are not legally required to register with a GP, but it is strongly recommended. Having your own doctor makes it much easier to get medical care when you need it, especially outside normal working hours. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

If you have recently moved to Rotterdam, it is a good idea to find a GP near your home soon after arranging your health insurance.

How to find and register with a GP

You can normally choose your own GP, although practices may refuse new patients if they are full or if you live too far away. If you cannot find a practice accepting new patients, your health insurer can help you look for one. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

When registering, a GP practice may ask for:

• your passport or official identification
• your BSN number
• your health insurance details
• your address and contact information
• information about your medical history and regular medication

You can search for GP practices in your area through Ikzoekeenhuisarts.nl or ask your insurer for help.

How to make an appointment

Most GP practices ask you to make an appointment by phone or online. When you call, the practice assistant may ask about your symptoms to decide how urgently you need to be seen.

Depending on the situation, you may receive:

• an appointment with the GP
• a telephone consultation
• advice from the practice assistant
• an appointment with another healthcare professional in the practice

Some practices also offer online consultations or repeat-prescription services.

What are GP consultations like?

GP consultations in the Netherlands are often short and focused. It helps to explain your symptoms clearly, including when they started, how severe they are and whether they are getting better or worse.

Dutch doctors tend to be relatively cautious with medication such as antibiotics and may first recommend rest, monitoring or simpler treatment when medically appropriate.

If the GP thinks you need specialist treatment, they can refer you to a hospital or specialist.

Do you need a referral to see a specialist?

For most specialist hospital care, you need a referral from a GP or another authorised healthcare professional. Without a valid referral, you may have to pay the costs yourself or the specialist may ask you to obtain a referral first. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

There are exceptions. Depending on your insurance policy, you can often visit professionals such as physiotherapists, dietitians, speech therapists or podiatrists without a GP referral. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Can you go directly to the hospital?

For planned specialist treatment, you will normally need a referral. In a medical emergency, however, you do not need a GP referral to receive urgent specialist care. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

For urgent medical problems outside your GP’s normal opening hours, you may be directed to an out-of-hours GP service (huisartsenpost) rather than going directly to the emergency department.

How much does it cost to visit a GP?

If you have Dutch basic health insurance, GP care is covered by the basic package and GP consultations do not normally count towards the mandatory deductible (eigen risico). :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

However, services ordered by your GP can still cost you money. For example, medicines, blood tests, hospital care and specialist treatment may fall under the deductible. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

GP, huisartsenpost or hospital?

Useful Dutch words at the doctor

If you want useful phrases for explaining symptoms, see our guide to Dutch phrases for visiting a doctor.

Things to arrange when moving to the Netherlands

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