Are you avoiding healthcare because you cannot afford the costs? This is called healthcare avoidance. In Leiden, there are options to access healthcare even with a limited budget.
What does healthcare avoidance mean?
Healthcare avoidance means skipping or postponing necessary healthcare due to financial limitations. Examples include:
- Not picking up medication
- Postponing dentist visits
- Not consulting a general practitioner
- Cancelling treatments due to copayments
Free or affordable healthcare in Leiden
There are healthcare services that cost little to nothing:
| Type of care | Costs |
|---|---|
| General practitioner visit | Free (no deductible) |
| Midwifery care | Free |
| Consultation office | Free |
| Public health service (GGD) services | Free |
| Youth care (up to 18 years) | Free |
Financial support for healthcare costs
- Healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag): Assistance with premium payments via the Tax Authorities
- Extraordinary assistance (bijzondere bijstand): For essential healthcare costs via the Municipality of Leiden
- Municipal health insurance policy (gemeentepolis): Affordable health insurance for people with low income
- Urgent Needs Foundation (Stichting Urgente Noden): One-time support in urgent situations
The municipal health insurance policy in Leiden
The Municipality of Leiden offers a collective health insurance policy for residents with low income:
- Reduced premium compared to standard insurances
- Supplementary coverage (such as dental care and physiotherapy)
- No medical examination required
- Contact the Municipality of Leiden for more details
Frequently asked questions about healthcare in Leiden
Can the Municipality of Leiden reimburse my deductible?
In some cases, yes. Through extraordinary assistance, you can apply for reimbursement if you cannot pay the deductible. Contact the social services of Leiden.
What to do if I cannot afford my medications?
Consult your general practitioner about cheaper options. Additionally, you can apply for extraordinary assistance from the Municipality of Leiden for help with medication costs.
My child needs care, but I cannot afford it. What now?
For children up to 18 years, healthcare is free via the basic insurance, without deductible. Youth care is also provided free of charge.
Additional questions and answers
No health insurance, can I still go to the general practitioner in Leiden?
Yes, general practitioner care is always accessible, even without insurance. Consultations are free, but medications or follow-up examinations may incur costs. Ask the Municipality of Leiden about the municipal health insurance policy for affordable insurance.
How do I apply for extraordinary assistance in Leiden?
This is arranged via the Municipality of Leiden. It concerns a temporary contribution for necessary healthcare costs such as medication or deductible. Submit supporting documents and contact the social services for assessment.
What if I cannot pay my health insurance premium?
Contact your health insurer for a payment arrangement. Apply for healthcare allowance via the Tax Authorities and inquire with the Municipality of Leiden about the municipal health insurance policy. Prevent arrears to avoid fines or debts.