The Netherlands is a well-liked travel destination for medical tourists because of its excellent healthcare system. The Netherlands is known for its universal and high level of healthcare, and it is consistently ranked as one of the greatest healthcare systems in the world. The Netherlands is noted for its high standards, good facilities, and universal access to health care through a private provider-led model. [1]

Healthcare in the Netherlands is provided through a universal public health insurance policy that is funded by private insurance. [3]

Netherlands’ Healthcare System

Public Healthcare in the Netherlands for Health Tourists

The Netherlands offers a high standard of public healthcare, which is accessible to international patients through various pathways. Health tourists can access public healthcare services primarily via partnerships between their home country’s healthcare system and Dutch hospitals or through private arrangements. [2]

The Netherlands offers advanced medical care with its specialized treatments in fields such as oncology, cardiology,and orthopedics, supported by cutting-edge technology and experienced professionals. Many public hospitals have international patient departments dedicated to assisting with appointments, treatment plans, and navigating the healthcare system. These hospitals often hold international accreditations like JCI and NIAZ, ensuring high-quality care that meets global standards. [2]

Although the Dutch National Health Service primarily serves residents, international patients can access public health care services either by paying out-of-pocket or through international health insurance, with some countries having bilateral agreements that facilitate cost-sharing or direct coverage. [2]

Private Healthcare in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has a system that provides universal health insurance! However, instead of a government-operated national health insurance system, private insurers provide this coverage in the Netherlands. [2]

Standard or basic health insurance inthe Netherlands is known as "basis verzekering." Multiple private insurers offer this coverage. The Dutch government selects the medical services that fall under the standard insurance coverage in the Netherlands. [2]

Health Insurance Cost in the Netherlands

Anyone eligible for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can use it to receive emergency medical care in the Netherlands. However, this card does not cover other medical treatments. If you plan to spend time in the Netherlands, you will need international insurance ora plan that meets the Dutch government's requirements to cover your medical expenses. [2]

In the Netherlands' universal health care system, you also pay an "eigen risico" or deductible for your own risk. In 2022 and 2023, the minimum amount for eigen risico was 385 euros. [2]

Main International Health Insurance Companies in The Netherlands

·     Cigna

·     GeoBlue (for US citizens)

·     IMG Global Medical Insurance

·     SafetyWing (Travel medical insurance for digital nomads)

Temporary Health Insurance for Tourists

If you’re visiting the Netherlands, be aware that the Dutch National Health Service does not cover short-term visitors. European visitors can rely on their country’s insurance in an emergency, especially if they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) [2]. You can use your EHIC if you're a visitor from an EU or EEA nation who will bein the Netherlands for less than a year [1]. However, if you don’t have an EHIC or if it’s not a medical emergency, you’ll need to cover your own medical expenses. [2]

Temporary visitors from outside the EU/EEA should make arrangements to obtain international health insurance or travel insurance of their own [1]. Travel medical insurance can help cover unexpected medical costs, ensuring your trip isn’t burdened with a large bill. Some policies even cover medical repatriation, allowing you to return home for treatment once your condition stabilizes. [2]

JCI Accredited Hospitals/Clinics –Netherlands

Top-Ranked Netherlands Hospitals for Global Patients

Serving international patients and medical tourists, the top 6 popular hospitals in the Netherlands are public hospitals and 2 are private hospitals. [4]

Common Procedures done by Medical Tourists in Netherlands

·     Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery [1]

·     Fertility Treatments [1]

·     Orthopedic Surgery [1]

·      Neurosurgery [1]

·      Dental Care [1]

Netherlands Health Care: Costs

Key Points Relevant to Foreign Patients in the Dutch System:

Liability and Compensation: Foreign patients who receive medical treatment in the Netherlands are also protected under the country's malpractice and liability laws. If a medical error occurs, they have the right to seek compensation through a legal process that is similar to what Dutch citizens would follow. However, the process often involves mediation, which is a common approach to resolving disputes in the Netherlands​. [6]

Insurance and Coverage: For foreign patients, it is crucial to understand that while healthcare providers in the Netherlands are insured for professional liability, the scope of compensation and the process for filing a claim might differ depending on the patient’s home country and their insurance arrangements. It is advisable for foreign patients to verify the coverage details with their insurer before seeking treatment. [6]

Pros

ü High Quality of Care:

The Netherlands is known for its high standards in healthcare, with well-trained medical professionals adhering to strict ethical standards and hospitals and clinics following international health protocols. [13]

ü Multilingual Services:

Many healthcare professionals in the Netherlands are proficient in English, as well as other languages such as German or French, facilitating effective communication of international patients' needs and concerns. [14]

ü Investment in Advanced Medical Technology:

The country invests heavily incutting-edge medical technology, ensuring that patients receive the latest treatments and diagnostics. [13]

ü Exceptional Care for Critical IlInesses:

The Netherlands provides outstanding care for critical illnesses, leveraging advanced technology and specialized expertise to deliver exceptional treatment outcomes and ensure the highest standards of patient safety and recovery. [13]

Cons

û No National Electronic Health Records:

The Netherlands lacks a unified national electronic health record system. This absence can create obstacles in accessing and transferring patient information between different healthcare providers, impacting continuity of care. [7]

û Higher Healthcare Costs:

Healthcare in the Netherlands can be more expensive compared to other European countries. Required health insurance premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses can add up, creating a significant financial burden for international patients. [7]

û Limited Specialist Availability:

The relatively small number of specialists in the Netherlands can lead to extended waiting times for international patient sseeking specialized care, potentially causing delays in treatment and increasing the frustration for those needing prompt attention. [14]

Travelling to the Netherlands

Average estimated travel time in hours and kilometres: [8]

Traveling by Train [9]:

Belgium:

• Brussels: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes
• Antwerp: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

France:

• Paris: Approximately 3 hours 20 minutes

Germany:

• Cologne: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes
• Düsseldorf: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes
• Essen: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

United Kingdom:

• London: Approximately 4 hours

Switzerland:

• Zurich: Approximately 8 hours (requires a transfer)

Visa and Travel Requirements for the Netherlands

From European Countries:

EU/EEA Nationals: Citizens of EU/EEA countries can enter the Netherlands with just a valid identification document due to the Schengen Agreement. They do not need a visa for short stays. [10]

From Middle Eastern Countries:

• Visa Requirement: Travelers from the Middle East generally need a Schengen visa for short stays (up to 90 days). To obtain a visa, the following documents are required:
• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen Area.
• Proof of Accommodation: Details of where you will be staying during your visit.
• Travel Insurance: Must cover medical expenses and emergencies with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
• Proof of Financial Means: Evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay, such as bank statements.
• Visa Application Fee: Typically, €80 for adults. [10] 

From Asian Countries:

• Visa-Free Access: Citizens from countries such as Japan, South Korea, and Malaysia can stay in the Netherlands for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
• Visa Required: Travelers from countries like China, India, and Russia must apply for a Schengen visa before traveling. Required documents include:
• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay.
• Proof of Travel Insurance: Coverage of at least €30,000 for medical expenses.
• Proof of Accommodation and Financial Means: Evidence of where you will stay and proof that you can support yourself financially. [10]

From the UK:

• Visa-Free Access: UK nationals do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days in the Netherlands for purposes such as tourism, visiting family, business meetings, or short-term studies. Ensure your entire stay remains within the 90-day limit, including previous visits to Schengen countries within the last 180 days. [11]

From the US:

• Visa-Free Access: US citizens can stay in the Netherlands for up to 90 days without a visa. For stays longer than 90 days or for residency, a visa must be obtained from a Dutch consulate before traveling. The application process can take several weeks, so it is advisable to apply well in advance. The visa will be issued for the period indicated on the application. [11]

From Canada:

• Visa-Free Access: Canadians can enter the Netherlands for short stays without a visa. Starting in 2024, Canadians will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) authorization before traveling. ETIAS is like the ESTA for the US and is not a visa but a travel authorization. [10]

Insights About the Netherlands for Medical Tourists

The Netherlands generally occupies a high position in the ranking of hospitals in Europe. Many Dutch hospitals, especially Erasmus MC, Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC) and Amsterdam UMC, are ranked among the best hospitals in Europe. These hospitals are often recognised for their innovative treatment methods and high-quality healthcare. [4]

According to data from the Dutch National Institute for Statistics (CBS), approximately 1.2 million medical tourists have visited the Netherlands in recent years. The majority of visitors come from Belgium, Germany, the UK, Russia and Middle Eastern countries. [12]

Information Sources:

[1] The healthcare system in the Netherlands

[2] Health Insurance in the Netherlands: Where Expats Fit Into the Netherlands’ Health Insurance System

[3] International Health Care System Profiles: Netherlands

[4] World's Best Hospitals 2023

[5] JCI-Accredited Organizations: Netherlands

[6] Foreign travel advice: Netherlands

[7] Healthcare in The Netherlands: Get to Know the Netherlands Healthcare System

[8] How long does it take to get from A to B by plane?

[9] 19 places you can get to by TRAIN from the Netherlands

[10] What do I need to travel to the Netherlands?

[11] Travelling to the Netherlands

[12] Nederlands Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek (Netherlands Central Bureau of Statistics)

[13] What Are The Reasons that Make the Netherlands Attractive for Healthcare Tourism?

[14] Health Insurance and Healthcare in the Netherlands Explained

[15] Netherlands Health Care: Costs / Medical Procedures