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The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is a reciprocal agreement between the countries which make up the European Economic Area. As both the Netherlands and the UK fall into this category, travellers from Britain who are heading to the Netherlands on holiday or for business can use EHIC to cover basic state healthcare. People planning to spend more than three months in the Netherlands will have to register with one of the state healthcare insurance providers.
Accessing Medical Care in the Netherlands
Whatever type of medical care you are in need of, in order to be treated under EHIC rules you must make sure that you see a doctor who is registered with Zilveren Kruis, the state health insurance company. Ask when making the appointment, and make sure you show your EHIC paperwork when you arrive at the doctor’s surgery. You can also call the Zilveren Kruis helpline number or email them for help in finding a doctor in your area. The GP is the first point of contact for all non-urgent cases, as you will need them to refer you to a specialist in hospital if needed. In an emergency, visit the A&E department of the nearest large hospital. Most nurses and doctors in the Netherlands will speak good English and there should not be too many communication difficulties.
Fees and Costs for Healthcare
As an EHIC holder, you will be treated on the same basis as a Dutch citizen who has the basic state health insurance package. You will not be charged for appointments with a GP, treatment in a hospital or a consultation with a specialist doctor, any medication you are prescribed, or any care during pregnancy. In some cases, as an EHIC holder you will be asked to pay the doctor and then reclaim the money from Zilveren Kruis in the same way as a Dutch resident would reclaim their costs from their insurer. If this happens, make sure you keep all invoices and receipts for payment, and call the Zilveren Kruis helpline for details of the procedure for claiming back some of what you spend. Any claim for expenses has to be made before you return to the UK as the NHS will not be able to help you with this.
Dental, Prescription and Other Services
The Dutch basic health care package does not cover any additional services such as physiotherapy, and if your doctor recommends this then you will have to pay the costs in full. Dental care is only covered for children under the age of 18, and adults will have to pay the costs of their treatment. Establish likely costs before agreeing to go ahead. Medication is also covered under the Dutch insurance system and you should not be charged for your medication. If you are charged, keep receipts as you will probably be able to claim some of the cost back.