The deductible is the amount you must pay yourself before your health insurance covers costs. For 2024, the mandatory deductible has been set at €385 per year.
What does the deductible entail?
The deductible is the portion of healthcare costs that you pay yourself before the insurance pays out. This applies exclusively to care covered by the basic insurance.
Mandatory and voluntary deductible
| Type | Amount 2024 | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory deductible | € 385 | For everyone aged 18 and older |
| Voluntary deductible | € 0 - € 500 extra | Option for a lower monthly premium |
| Maximum deductible | € 885 | Mandatory € 385 + voluntary € 500 |
Which care is exempt from the deductible?
You do not have to pay a deductible for the following care:
- Visits to the general practitioner (consultations and home visits)
- General practitioner care outside office hours (evening, night, weekend)
- Care related to pregnancy and postpartum period
- Check-ups after organ donation
- Flu vaccination for risk groups
Deductible for minors
No deductible applies to children under 18 years of age. They are covered free of charge on one of the parents' policies.
Option for higher voluntary deductible
You can choose to increase your deductible in increments of €100 up to €500. This results in a lower premium, which can be advantageous if you expect low healthcare costs.
Frequently asked questions about the deductible
Is the deductible reset every year?
Yes, on January 1 of each year, the deductible starts again at €0 used, regardless of what you paid the previous year.
Do I have to pay a deductible for a general practitioner visit?
No, general practitioner care is exempt from the deductible. However, costs for referrals to specialists are subject to the deductible.
Is installment payment of the deductible possible?
Yes, many insurers offer an arrangement to pay the deductible in monthly installments. Inquire with your insurer about the options.
Legal support in Leiden
Do you have questions about your health insurance or disputes regarding the deductible? Visit the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46 for free advice. For legal proceedings, you can go to the Rechtbank Den Haag, location Leiden.
Additional questions about the deductible
What if I cannot pay the deductible immediately?
No worries, the health insurer pays the costs immediately. You repay the deductible later, often in installments. Contact your insurer for a suitable arrangement.
Can I change my voluntary deductible annually?
Yes, each year when concluding or adjusting your policy, you can change the voluntary deductible (€0-€500). A higher deductible means lower premiums, but be cautious with high healthcare costs.
Does physiotherapy count towards the deductible?
Yes, even with a referral from the general practitioner, physiotherapy is subject to the deductible. Only the general practitioner consultations themselves are exempt.