In the Netherlands, everyone must take out basic health insurance. This insurance provides coverage for essential medical care and has the same substantive basis with every insurer.
What care is covered by the basic insurance?
The basic insurance includes reimbursement for various types of care, such as:
- Visits to the general practitioner (no deductible)
- Treatments in the hospital and specialist care
- Medicines (if on the reimbursement list)
- Psychological help (basic and specialised mental health care)
- Maternity care and maternity nursing care
- Medical aids
- Physiotherapy (from the 21st session)
- Ambulance services and acute care
Deductible in 2024
For 2024, the mandatory deductible is €385 per year. This means you must pay the first €385 in healthcare costs yourself, with the exception of general practitioner visits, maternity care and a few other categories.
What is not covered by the basic insurance?
- Dental care for adults (except specific exceptions)
- The first 20 physiotherapy treatments
- Alternative treatment methods
- Vision correction (glasses or lenses)
- Cosmetic surgery
Costs of the basic insurance
The monthly premium for the basic insurance varies by provider:
- Average premium in 2024: between €140 and €160
- Natura policy: lower costs, limited choice of care providers
- Restitution policy: higher premium, more freedom of choice
Frequently asked questions about health insurance in Leiden
Is basic insurance mandatory, even if I don't need care?
Yes, everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands must have basic insurance. It is not permitted to be uninsured.
Can an insurer reject me for basic insurance?
No, insurers are obliged to accept everyone for the basic insurance, regardless of health problems.
When can I switch insurers?
You can switch annually. Cancel your current policy before 1 January and take out a new insurance policy by 1 February at the latest.
Extra questions and answers
What if I don't pay my premium on time?
If you don't pay, you will first receive a reminder from the insurer. If payment is still not made, a demand letter with additional costs will follow. Ultimately, the CAK can collect the premium via wage garnishment or benefit, and you risk a fine of up to €438 (2024). So pay on time to avoid problems.
Can I adjust my deductible?
The standard deductible is €385 (2024), but you can voluntarily increase it to €885 for a lower premium. Reducing it below €385 is not possible. This is only advisable if you expect little care and have financial reserves.
Is physiotherapy for children reimbursed?
Yes, for children under 18 years, the first 20 physiotherapy treatments per year are fully covered. From the 21st treatment, the deductible applies. For adults, reimbursement starts from the 21st treatment for chronic conditions.
How do I find the right health insurance in Leiden?
Compare premiums, coverage and policy conditions from different insurers. A natura policy is cheaper with less choice, while a restitution policy is more expensive but offers more freedom. Consider supplementary packages for extra care such as dental treatments. Use tools like Independer for an overview.
What to do if my insurer does not pay a bill?
Check if the treatment falls under the basic coverage. If rejected, request a written explanation and file an objection within 6 weeks. For help, you can contact the Zorginstituut Nederland.
Can I change my insurance mid-term?
Switching is normally only possible around the turn of the year (cancel before 1 January, take out new before 1 February). Exceptions are moving abroad, death or reaching the age of 18 (take out your own policy within 4 months).
What is the difference between natura and restitution policy?
A natura policy reimburses care only at contracted providers and is cheaper. A restitution policy offers free choice of care providers against a higher premium.
Legal support in Leiden: For questions about health insurance or disputes, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden (Stationsweg 46) or the Rechtbank Den Haag, Leiden location.