In the Netherlands, you cannot just walk into a hospital for a minor illness. The Huisarts (General Practitioner/GP) is the gatekeeper of the entire healthcare system. If you want to see a specialist, get a prescription, or have a blood test, you must have a referral from your Huisarts first.
Here is why and how you should register with one as soon as you move into your new room.
1. Why Register Immediately?
Many international students wait until they are sick to look for a doctor. This is a mistake.
- Capacity: Many Dutch doctors are "full" and cannot accept new patients. Finding an open spot can take days or even weeks.
- Emergency Care: If you have an urgent (but not life-threatening) issue, the first question the clinic will ask is: "Are you registered here?"
2. How to Find a Doctor
- University Health Centers: Most large universities (like UvA, TU Delft, or EUR) have their own GP practices specifically for students. These are almost always the best place to start.
- Zip Code Search: Use websites like ZorgkaartNederland.nl or Kiesuwhuisarts.nl to find a practice near your home address.
- The 15-Minute Rule: Most GPs only accept patients who live within a 15-minute radius (by bike or foot) so they can reach you quickly in an emergency.
3. The Registration Process
- Call or Visit: Contact the practice and ask if they are accepting new patients (nieuwe patiënten aannemen).
- Fill out the Form: You will need to provide your ID, your BSN, and your insurance details (or EHIC).
- The Intake Interview: Some doctors will ask for a short 10-minute "intake" meeting to discuss your medical history.
4. What to Expect (The "Paracetamol" Culture)
The Dutch medical philosophy is famously conservative.
- Wait and See: If you have a cold, flu, or minor pain, the doctor will likely tell you to "wait two weeks" and "take paracetamol."
- No Antibiotics: The Netherlands has one of the lowest rates of antibiotic prescriptions in the world. They will only prescribe them if absolutely necessary.
- Brief Appointments: A standard consultation lasts exactly 10 minutes. Be prepared and get straight to the point.
If you feel your issue is serious, be very direct and specific about your symptoms. Dutch culture is direct, and doctors expect you to be the same.
5. After Hours: The Huisartsenpost
If you get sick at night (after 17:00) or on the weekend:
- Do not go to the Emergency Room (Spoedeisende Hulp) unless it is life-threatening.
- Call the Huisartsenpost (After-hours GP service) in your city. They will assess your symptoms over the phone and tell you if you need to come in.
Need a doctor in your city?
Our roadmap includes a pre-filtered list of student-friendly doctors who are currently accepting new patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a GP visit free?
If you have Dutch basic insurance, the GP visit itself is free (it doesn't even count toward your deductible). If you have an EHIC or private insurance, you may have to pay upfront (~€30-€50) and claim it back later.
How do I get a prescription?
The GP will send an electronic prescription directly to your local Apotheek (Pharmacy). You just go there and show your ID to collect your medicine.
Can I see a specialist directly?
No. In almost all cases, a hospital specialist will refuse to see you without a digital referral letter from your Huisarts.