A2 KNM: Healthcare System In-Depth
Health insurance (zorgverzekering) is mandatory for people who live or work in the Netherlands. The basic package (basispakket) covers essential care. In...
Reviewed against official sources - Updated 2026-05-10
Health insurance (zorgverzekering) is mandatory for people who live or work in the Netherlands. The basic package (basispakket) covers essential care. In 2026, adults pay a mandatory 'eigen risico' (deductible) of €385 for most care from the basic package, but huisarts care does not count toward this deductible. The huisarts remains your first point of contact for health issues.
| Dutch | English | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Basispakket | Basic package | Mandatory coverage, same for all |
| Aanvullende verzekering | Supplementary insurance | Optional, e.g., dental, physio |
| Eigen risico | Deductible | €385 in 2026 for most basic-package care |
| Premie | Premium | Monthly payment for insurance |
| Huisarts | GP/Family doctor | Gatekeeper to specialists |
| Verwijsbrief | Referral letter | Needed to see a specialist |
| Care Point | Dutch | When to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy | Apotheek | Medicines and prescriptions from your doctor |
| Out-of-hours GP | Huisartsenpost | Urgent care in the evening, night, or weekend; call first |
| Specialist | Specialist | Hospital doctor, usually after a GP referral |
| Hospital | Ziekenhuis | Specialist care, operations, and emergency care |
| Dentist | Tandarts | Dental care; adult dental care is often extra insurance |
| Home care | Thuiszorg | Nursing or practical care at home |
Examples
- Hoeveel is je eigen risico?
- How much is your deductible?
- Mijn eigen risico is €385.
- My deductible is €385.
- Ik heb een verwijsbrief nodig.
- I need a referral letter.
- Heb je een aanvullende verzekering?
- Do you have supplementary insurance?
Study note
Compare health insurance every year in November/December for the next calendar year. The basic package is set by the government, so compare insurers on price, service, and extra coverage. Students, low-income workers, and seniors may qualify for zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance).
Practice after reading
Train A2 knowledge of Dutch society with timed KNM practice questions.
