Published May 24, 2024
There's a Dutch saying that goes "Een ongeluk zit in een klein hoekje", which means that bad luck can strike out of nowhere. In such cases, it is good to know where and when to seek help in case of a (medical) emergency. In this article, we aim to guide Dutch newcomers with an overview of the 'Emergency Protocol', ensuring you are prepared at all times.
Navigating emergency healthcare in the Netherlands requires an understanding of the system's structure, knowing when and how to seek care, and being prepared with essential contact information. For this, it is good to know that the Dutch emergency healthcare system is well-organized, with clear distinctions between levels of care.
In life-threatening situations, the emergency number 112 is your first point of contact. It connects you to ambulance services, as well as the fire department and police, if necessary. The number is part of a Europe-wide emergency system, with operators fluent in Dutch, English, and often in French or German.
In non-emergency situations, your GP (huisarts) remains your main point of contact for health concerns and guidance through the healthcare system, providing referrals to specialists and emergency services as needed.
During nights, weekends and holidays, knowing where to seek emergency care is crucial. For life-threatening conditions that demand specialist intervention right away, the emergency department (SEH) is the place to go. For urgent, yet non-life-threatening issues, your first call should be to the after-hours GP service (huisartsenpost). Typically located near hospitals, the huisartsenpost (GP center) offers initial assistance over the phone, and if necessary, they will invite you for an in-person visit.
When facing an emergency, being aware of the following can help manage expectations
and reduce stress:
Emergency healthcare costs are generally covered by your mandatory Dutch health insurance. However, it's crucial to know:
Deductibles (Eigen risico)
Emergency room visits and ambulance services are covered, but the costs count towards your annual deductible. After meeting this deductible, your insurance covers additional expenses. Need more info about insurances? Read everything about insurances in this article.
Direct billing
In most cases, hospitals bill your insurance company directly, streamlining the reimbursement process.
Having a list of essential contacts and knowing how to find local healthcare providers are important steps in preparing for emergencies. This includes knowing how to reach your local huisartsenpost, the central doctor's service for after-hours advice, and the nearest SEH.
Below you will find an overview of most important national and local Emergency contacts
and organizations to add to your mobile phone:
By integrating this knowledge into your preparation for living in the Netherlands, you can navigate the healthcare system with confidence, ensuring timely and appropriate care in emergencies.
This article was prepared in collaboration with RSH | Relocation and Immigration Services, a full-service Relocation, Immigration, and Home Finding agency with 35 years of in-house experience. RSH provides support to knowledge migrants, HR managers, recruiters, and expats in organizing immigration matters, moving to, and housing in the Netherlands.
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Moving to the Netherlands involves various administrative tasks, including registering with the municipality, obtaining a Citizen Service Number (BSN), and applying for a DigiD. These steps are crucial for accessing essential services and facilities in the country.
If you are new to the Netherlands, one of the initial tasks on your checklist is likely sorting out your health insurance. It is vital to ensure both you and your loved ones are well-covered in your new home. In this article, we will guide you through the basics of Dutch healthcare, alongside what is covered and how to apply for suitable health insurance. In the meantime, we will also ensure that your temporary care is well arranged.