Doctors in The Hague: A Guide to Finding, Registering, and Accessing Healthcare

Introduction

The Hague, known as the political center of the Netherlands and home to many international organizations, has an excellent healthcare system available to residents, expatriates, and visitors. General practitioners (huisartsen) provide primary healthcare services and refer patients to specialists when necessary. Understanding how to find and access doctors in The Hague ensures that you receive the right medical care when needed.

This guide details how to locate a doctor, register with a GP, access emergency medical services, and navigate healthcare costs and insurance policies in The Hague. For telehealth consultations, visit TravelDoctor EU. In-person medical services are also available in major European cities, including Paris, Budapest, Berlin, and Bucharest. For telehealth options in Argentina and Mexico, visit TravelDoctorES.

Understanding Healthcare in The Hague

How the Dutch Healthcare System Works

The Netherlands operates a structured healthcare system where general practitioners manage most medical concerns and provide referrals for specialist care. Dutch residents are required to have health insurance, while tourists must cover medical expenses and seek reimbursement through their travel insurance.

Who Can Access Doctors in The Hague?

• Residents: Must have Dutch health insurance to access medical care.

• EU/EEA Citizens: If working in the Netherlands, they must obtain Dutch health insurance.

• Non-EU/EEA Expats: Must secure Dutch health insurance within four months of receiving a residence permit.

• Tourists & Visitors: Must pay upfront for services and claim reimbursement from travel insurers.

For telehealth services, visit TravelDoctor EU.

Finding a Doctor in The Hague

Ways to Locate a General Practitioner (GP)

• Search by Postcode: Use local directories to find doctors near you.

• Check Embassy Listings: Many embassies provide recommendations for English-speaking doctors.

• Online Directories: Find telehealth consultations at TravelDoctor EU.

• Centrale Dokterdienst Helpline: Call 070 346 9669 for GP assistance in The Hague.

Medical Facilities in The Hague

• The Hague International Health Center

• Huisartsenpraktijk Bezuidenhout

• Hadoks (Huisartsenpost The Hague) for after-hours GP care

Registering with a Doctor in The Hague

How to Register

• Provide a valid ID (passport or Dutch residence permit).

• Present your citizen service number (BSN).

• Show proof of Dutch health insurance.

It is advisable to register with a GP as soon as possible, as many practices have limited availability.

Scheduling a Doctor’s Appointment

• Appointments (afspraak) are required and should be booked online or by phone.

• Waiting times vary from same-day appointments to a few days.

• Walk-in consultations (inloop spreekuur) may be available at select clinics.

• Telehealth consultations can be arranged via TravelDoctor EU.

Healthcare Costs and Insurance in The Hague

• GP visits are covered by Dutch health insurance.

• Without insurance, consultations cost approximately €30-€50.

• Specialist referrals are required for reimbursement.

• Tourists must pay upfront and seek reimbursement from their travel insurance.

For specific coverage details, visit TravelDoctor EU.

Emergency Healthcare Services in The Hague

• Call 112 for life-threatening emergencies.

• Hospital Emergency Departments (Spoedeisende Hulp): Provide urgent medical treatment.

• Huisartsenpost (After-Hours GP Service): Available outside of regular hours.

• 24/7 Pharmacies: Some locations offer round-the-clock medication access.

For telehealth emergency assistance, visit TravelDoctor EU.

Specialist Referrals and Prescriptions

• A GP referral is needed to see a specialist.

• Dutch pharmacies (apotheken) dispense prescribed medications.

• Conservative treatments are prioritized over antibiotics.

For prescription services, visit TravelDoctor EU.

Filing a Complaint About a Doctor

• First, discuss any concerns directly with the doctor.

• Submit a formal complaint to the clinic’s complaints officer.

• If unresolved, escalate the issue to an independent dispute resolution board.

For further information, visit TravelDoctor EU.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can tourists see a doctor in The Hague?

Yes, but they must pay for medical services and seek reimbursement through their travel insurer.

2. How do I find an English-speaking doctor?

Most Dutch doctors speak English. Visit TravelDoctor EU for telehealth consultations with English-speaking professionals.

3. How do I book a GP appointment?

Appointments can be made online, by phone, or via telehealth at TravelDoctor EU.

4. Do I need a referral to see a specialist?

Yes, GPs evaluate conditions before referring patients to specialists. Without a referral, insurance may not cover the consultation.

5. What should I do in case of a medical emergency?

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.