Choosing a GP

Most people in the Netherlands have their own GP. There may be one or several GPs in a GP practice. It is strongly recommended that you register with a GP in your area as soon as you are settled, even if you don’t need of a doctor right away.

Your own GP is familiar with your situation and keeps track of changes to your health. By having your own GP, you also know who you can turn to if you have health problems. And in the evening, at night or at the weekend, you can contact the out-of-hours GP (huisartsen-spoedpost) if you have urgent questions.

Choose a GP yourself

In the Netherlands you are free to choose your own GP. But in practice you might not be able to register with the GP of your choice. This could be because:

• That GP is not accepting new patients.
• You live too far away from that GP.
• You have different ideas about healthcare than the GP. For example, views on alternative therapies or euthanasia.
• Your health insurer does not have a contract with this GP. Pay attention to this if you have taken out a 'contracted care' (in natura) policy with your health insurer.

How do you find a GP?

You can search online in a search engine for 'GP' and your place of residence to find out which GPs are located in your area.

If you are unable to find a GP, you can ask your health insurer to help you find one.

What can you do if you are refused?

If the GP of your choice refuses to register you as a patient without a good reason, you can contact your health insurer or the advocacy organisation for health care clients (Zorgbelangorganisatie) in your region. This organisation represents the interests of everyone who needs healthcare in your region. You can find the address on the website of Zorgbelang Nederland (in Dutch).

When you register with a GP, please bring your ID with you and have your ‘citizen service number’ (burger service nummer or BSN) and your health insurance details (name and number) at hand. Some practices will allow you to register online. At your first visit, bring along any medical records you have from your home country and a list of any medications you are taking (if applicable).

If you move within the Netherlands, your previous GP will send your records directly to your new GP. This will only be done with your approval.

You are also advised to register with a pharmacy near to where you live. Your GP practice will then know where to send prescriptions.