Healthcare in the Netherlands: How to Find English-Speaking Doctors & Urgent Medical Help Fast

An in-depth guide on healthcare in the Netherlands for travelers, from pharmacy runs to emergencies – here's everything you need to know.

The Netherlands is a top destination for travelers and expats, known for its beautiful canals, rich culture, and world-class healthcare system. Whether you're visiting Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, or Utrecht, knowing how to access medical care can ensure a smooth trip.

Quick Summary: How to Get Medical Help in the Netherlands

• 📞 Emergency? Dial 112 for immediate assistance.

• 🏥 Need a Doctor? Use TravelDoctor EU for fast online consultations.

• 💊 Pharmacies: Look for Apotheek signs; 24-hour options available in larger cities.

• 📜 Travel Insurance? EU citizens can use their EHIC card; others should have private travel insurance.

Understanding the Dutch Healthcare System

The Netherlands has one of the highest-rated healthcare systems in the world. It operates under a managed competition model, ensuring accessibility and affordability.

Public Healthcare (Basisverzekering - Basic Health Insurance)

• Mandatory for all Dutch residents.

• Covers GP visits, hospital care, maternity care, and prescriptions.

• EU travelers can access care with an EHIC card.

Private Healthcare

• Available for faster appointments and specialist access.

• Tourists from outside the EU need private insurance to cover medical costs.

• Costs vary based on age, coverage, and pre-existing conditions.

Emergency Numbers and Accessing Services

• Dial 112 for police, ambulance, or fire.

• Dial 088 003 0600 for non-emergency after-hours GP care (Huisartsenpost).

• Multi-lingual emergency operators available via 112.

Finding English-Speaking Doctors in the Netherlands

Most Dutch doctors and medical professionals speak fluent English. However, for faster access:

• Use TravelDoctor EU for virtual consultations with English-speaking doctors.

• Learn key phrases:

  • "I need a doctor." – Ik heb een dokter nodig.

  • "Where is the nearest pharmacy?" – Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde apotheek?

Pharmacies in the Netherlands: Where to Go

• Pharmacies (Apotheek) are widely available.

• Opening Hours: Typically 8 AM – 6 PM (Monday–Friday), limited weekend hours.

• 24-Hour Pharmacies: Found in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague.

Cost of Healthcare in the Netherlands

• GP Consultation: €30 – €50 per visit.

• Hospital Stay: €100 – €400 per day (without insurance).

• Prescription Costs: €10 – €50 per medication.

• Accepted Payments: Credit cards, iDEAL, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Klarna.

Seeing a Specialist in the Netherlands

• Referral Required: You cannot see a specialist without a GP referral.

• Appointment Booking: After a referral, schedule with the hospital or clinic directly.

• Common Specialties: Gynecology, dermatology, orthopedics, cardiology.

Dental & Pediatric Care in the Netherlands

• Dentists: Privately run; some emergency dentists available 24/7 (Spoed tandarts).

• Pediatricians: Children’s healthcare is covered under the public system.

• Emergency Dental Care: Located in major cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam.

Hospitals in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has high-quality hospitals offering efficient treatment.

Top Hospitals by City:

• Amsterdam: AMC, VU Medisch Centrum, Antoni van Leeuwenhoekziekenhuis.

• Rotterdam: Erasmus MC, Sint Franciscus Gasthuis.

• The Hague: HMC Westeinde, HMC Bronovo.

• Utrecht: UMC Utrecht, St. Antonius Ziekenhuis.

Emergency & After-Hours Healthcare

• Dial 112 for life-threatening emergencies.

• Visit a Huisartsenpost (after-hours GP clinic) for urgent but non-life-threatening issues.

• Hospital ERs are available, but referrals are preferred for non-emergency cases.

Steps to Take If You Get Sick in the Netherlands

1. Visit a Pharmacy: Pharmacists provide advice and over-the-counter medicine.

2. See a Doctor: Use TravelDoctor EU for fast medical consultations.

3. Know Emergency Numbers: Call 112 or visit a Huisartsenpost for after-hours care.

4. Contact Your Insurer: Save receipts for insurance reimbursement.

5. Go to a Hospital: Only for serious cases; a GP referral is usually needed for specialists.

With this guide, you can navigate the Dutch healthcare system with ease and confidence, knowing that top-tier medical care is readily available.