Understanding the GP (Huisarts) System in Dutch Healthcare

The Central Role of the Huisarts

In the Netherlands, the huisarts acts as a 'gatekeeper' to the rest of the healthcare system. This means that for nearly all medical issues, you consult your GP first. They are highly trained professionals capable of diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, and only refer you to a specialist if they deem it necessary.

This system ensures continuity of care, as your GP has an overview of your medical history. It also helps to prevent unnecessary specialist visits and keeps healthcare costs manageable.

Registering with a GP Practice

Upon arriving and registering with your municipality (BRP) in the Netherlands, one of the first things you should do is register with a local GP practice. You generally choose a practice close to your home.

• Finding a GP: You can search online for "huisarts [your city/neighborhood] engels" (English). Websites like 'zorgkaartnederland.nl' or your health insurer's portal might also list practices.
• Registration: Once you find a suitable practice, you'll typically fill out a registration form, providing your BSN (Citizen Service Number), health insurance details, and contact information.
• Accepting New Patients: Always confirm if the practice is accepting new patients before attempting to register.

What Your GP Does

Your GP is equipped to handle a broad spectrum of medical services:

• First Point of Contact: For illnesses, minor injuries, general health concerns, and medical advice.
• Diagnosis and Treatment: They can diagnose common conditions, prescribe medication, and provide treatment.
• Referrals: If specialist care is needed, your GP will provide a referral letter or send it electronically. Without this, it's almost impossible to see a specialist.
• Preventative Care: Health checks, vaccinations, and lifestyle advice.
• Chronic Condition Management: Ongoing care for long-term health issues.
• Mental Health Support: Your GP can assess mental health concerns and either provide support directly (via POH-GGZ) or refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist.

Out-of-Hours Care: The 'Huisartsenpost'

For urgent medical issues that cannot wait until your GP's regular consultation hours (evenings, nights, weekends, public holidays) but are NOT life-threatening, you should contact the 'Huisartsenpost' (GP out-of-hours service).

You must always call the Huisartsenpost first. They will assess your symptoms over the phone and decide if you need to visit the post, receive a home visit, or if telephone advice is sufficient. The phone number for the Huisartsenpost varies by region, so be sure to look up and save the correct number for your area.

Costs and Insurance Coverage

One significant advantage for expats is that visits to your GP (huisarts) are completely covered by your basic health insurance and do not count towards your mandatory 'eigen risico' (deductible). This includes phone consultations and appointments at the GP practice.

However, any diagnostic tests, medications, or specialist referrals that your GP initiates WILL count towards your 'eigen risico'.