Can Expats Choose Their Own Hospital in the Netherlands?

Many expats assume they can visit any hospital directly when they need care. In the Netherlands, however, the healthcare system works differently.

So can expats choose their own hospital? The short answer is: yes, but usually through a GP referral.

Here’s how it works.

The GP Is the Gatekeeper

In the Dutch healthcare system:

• Your general practitioner (GP) is your first point of contact
• Specialists and hospital care usually require a referral
• You cannot normally book hospital appointments directly

This structured approach ensures coordinated care and controlled costs.

Choosing a Hospital After a Referral

Once your GP refers you to a specialist:

• You can often choose which hospital you prefer
• You may select based on location, waiting times, or reputation
• Some insurers publish hospital comparison tools

In cities like Amsterdam, there are multiple hospitals to choose from, depending on your insurance policy.

Does Insurance Affect Hospital Choice?

Yes. Your health insurance plan plays an important role.

There are two main types of policies:

• Restitutiepolis (reimbursement policy): Greater freedom to choose hospitals
• Naturapolis (contracted care policy): Limited to hospitals contracted by your insurer

If you choose a hospital outside your insurer’s network, you may need to pay part of the costs yourself.

Can You Go Directly to a Hospital?

Generally:

• No direct access to specialists without referral
• Hospitals do not accept self-referred non-emergency appointments
• Emergency departments are for urgent, serious situations only

If you show up at a hospital without a referral for non-emergency care, you may be redirected to a GP.

What About Emergency Situations?

In life-threatening emergencies:

• You can go directly to the nearest hospital
• Or call 112 for ambulance services

Emergency care is always accessible and covered under basic health insurance, subject to the deductible.

Private Clinics and Independent Treatment Centers

In addition to hospitals, the Netherlands has:

• Independent treatment centers (zelfstandige behandelcentra)
• Specialized clinics for certain procedures

These also typically require GP referrals and must be covered by your insurance plan.

Waiting Times and Flexibility

Expats may choose hospitals based on:

• Shorter waiting lists
• English-speaking specialists
• Convenience of location

Your GP can often advise on waiting times and available options.

Practical Tips for Expats

• Check your insurance policy before choosing a hospital
• Ask your GP about alternatives if waiting times are long
• Confirm whether the hospital is fully contracted with your insurer
• Keep deductible (eigen risico) costs in mind

Understanding your policy avoids unexpected expenses.

Why This System Exists

The Dutch healthcare system emphasizes:

• Efficiency
• Cost control
• Coordinated care

The GP referral model ensures patients are directed appropriately and reduces unnecessary specialist visits.

For expats, the system may feel restrictive at first, but it is generally predictable and well-organized once understood.

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