Navigating Amsterdam's Healthcare System: A Guide for Expats living in Serviced Apartments

Navigating Amsterdam's Healthcare System

Moving to Amsterdam is an exciting experience, but understanding the healthcare system can feel a bit complicated at first. Don’t worry—this guide breaks it all down for you, covering everything from registering with a doctor to handling emergencies and even sharing some lesser-known tips to make the process smoother.

1. Registering with a General Practitioner (GP)

Your GP, or Huisarts, is the first stop for most medical concerns in the Netherlands. From common colds to chronic conditions, your GP handles it all and refers you to specialists if necessary. Many expats find it helpful to explore local resources when settling in a new city. For example, if you’re staying in Amsterdam, check out City Retreat’s Living in Amsterdam guide for tips on locating essential services and adapting to life in the city.

How to Find a GP

Use websites like Zorgkaart Nederland to locate a GP near your home. Alternatively, ask neighbors or coworkers for recommendations—they often know which practices have availability. Some practices have online forms to start the registration process, while others require you to call or visit in person. For expats we can also recommend central doctors who work specially with tourists and expats

What You’ll Need to Register

- Proof of address (rental contract or proof of registration with the municipality).

- A valid ID (passport or residence permit).

- Health insurance details (more on this below).

What If No GPs Are Accepting Patients?

If you can’t find a GP with space, contact your local health insurance provider or the municipality. They often have resources to help find a GP who must take you in based on location.

Bonus Information

When you register, your GP practice will usually set up your electronic health record (EHR). This allows your medical history to be shared with hospitals or other specialists if you need further care. You can opt out of sharing your EHR, but it’s worth keeping for emergencies.

2. Health Insurance: A Must-Have for Residents

In the Netherlands, health insurance is mandatory, and you need to arrange it within four months of registering with the municipality. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines.

Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering)

Covers essentials like GP visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications. Everyone pays a similar base rate, with premiums typically ranging from €120 to €150 per month.

Supplementary Insurance

While the basic package covers most needs, extras like dental care, physiotherapy, or additional mental health support require supplementary insurance. It’s optional, so decide based on your needs. Providers such as Zilveren Kruis, VGZ, and Menzis offer customizable plans.

Excess/Deductible (Eigen Risico)

This is the amount you pay out of pocket each year before insurance starts covering costs, usually set at €385. GP visits are exempt from this deductible.

Bonus Information

Expats on short-term stays may qualify for exemptions from Dutch insurance if they already have private international insurance. However, you’ll need to confirm this with the Sociale Verzekeringsbank (SVB). For freelancers or remote workers, there are special "expat-friendly" plans tailored to irregular income.

3. What to Do in an Emergency

Knowing what to do in an emergency is essential, especially in a new city.

Life-Threatening Situations

Call 112 for ambulances, police, or fire services. Make sure to clearly explain your location; speaking English is usually fine.

Non-Life-Threatening, Urgent Care

If you need urgent medical attention outside your GP’s hours, contact a huisartsenpost (out-of-hours GP service). You can find the nearest one by calling your GP’s voicemail or checking their website.

Hospitals in Amsterdam

Amsterdam UMC: Ideal for more complex or academic medical needs.

OLVG: Known for excellent general care and multiple locations in the city.

BovenIJ Hospital: A smaller hospital in the north of Amsterdam, offering a more personalized experience.

Bonus Information

Ambulance services may charge fees that aren’t fully covered by basic insurance. If you’re unsure whether to call an ambulance, the huisartsenpost can guide you on whether you should go to the hospital yourself or wait for an ambulance.

4. Pharmacies and Medications

Pharmacies (apotheken) are where you’ll pick up medications prescribed by your GP. They can also offer advice on minor health issues.

How to Find a Pharmacy?

You’ll usually register with one near your GP or home. This makes it easier for them to access your prescriptions directly from your electronic health record. You can also pick up medications from pick up points that are electronic devices placed outside pharmacies.

What About Over-the-Counter Medications?

For everyday items like paracetamol, ibuprofen, or cold remedies, you can visit pharmacies or drugstores like Etos, Kruidvat, or Trekpleister. Pharmacies, however, have stronger medications available without a prescription.

Bonus Information

If you need medication while traveling abroad, some apotheken offer an “emergency refill” for Dutch prescriptions, even if you’re outside the country. Just call your registered pharmacy and explain your situation.

5. Specialists and Referrals

You can’t visit a specialist directly in the Netherlands. Your GP must first evaluate your condition and decide if a referral is necessary.

How It Works

Once referred, you’ll typically wait a few weeks for an appointment unless it’s urgent. Specialists work in hospitals or dedicated clinics.

Examples of Specialists

Dermatologists: For skin-related issues.

Orthopedists: For joint and bone problems.

Psychiatrists: For mental health conditions requiring medication or advanced care.

Bonus Information

For faster specialist care, some private clinics accept international patients without GP referrals, though the costs may not be covered by insurance.

Conclusion

Navigating Amsterdam’s healthcare system becomes much easier once you know the basics. With your GP registered, insurance sorted, and emergency contacts in hand, you’ll be well-prepared for any health needs while enjoying life in this vibrant city.