In the Netherlands, including Rijswijk, it is mandatory to take out basic health insurance. This insurance provides coverage for essential medical care and has the same content with every insurer.
What care is covered by the basic insurance?
The basic insurance includes reimbursement for, among other things:
- Visits to the general practitioner (no deductible)
- Treatments in hospital and specialist care
- Medicines (if included on the reimbursement list)
- Mental health care (both basic and specialised)
- Maternity care and maternity nursing care
- Medical aids
- Physiotherapy (from the 21st session)
- Ambulance and emergency care
Deductible in 2024
The mandatory deductible amounts to €385 per year in 2024. This means you must pay the first €385 in healthcare costs yourself, with the exception of general practitioner care and a few other categories.
What is not covered by the basic insurance?
- Dental care for adults (except specific treatments)
- First 20 physiotherapy treatments
- Alternative treatment methods
- Glasses and contact lenses
- Cosmetic surgery
Costs of the basic insurance
The monthly premium for the basic insurance varies per provider:
- Average premium in 2024: approximately €140-160 per month
- Natura policy: often cheaper, but limited choice of care providers
- Restitution policy: higher premium, but more freedom of choice
Frequently asked questions about health insurance in Rijswijk
Is basic insurance mandatory, even if I don't need care?
Yes, everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands, including in Rijswijk, must have basic insurance. Being uninsured is not permitted.
Can an insurer refuse me for basic insurance?
No, insurers are obliged to accept everyone for basic insurance, regardless of health or background.
When can I switch health insurers?
You can switch annually. Cancel your current policy before 1 January and take out a new one before 1 February.
Extra questions about health insurances
What if I don't pay my premium on time?
If you don't pay, you will first receive a reminder, followed by a demand letter with additional costs. If payment is not forthcoming, the insurer can register you with the CAK, which will deduct the premium from your salary or benefit. You also risk a fine of up to €438 (2024). So pay on time to avoid problems.
Can I adjust my deductible?
The standard deductible is €385 (2024), but you can voluntarily increase it to €885 for a lower premium. Reducing it below €385 is not possible. This is only advisable if you expect little care and have a financial buffer.
Is physiotherapy for children covered?
Yes, for children up to 18 years, the first 20 treatments per year are fully reimbursed. From the 21st treatment, the deductible applies. For adults, reimbursement starts only from the 21st treatment for chronic conditions.
How do I find the right health insurance?
Compare premiums, coverage and policy conditions. Choose a natura policy for lower costs or a restitution policy for more freedom of choice. Also look at supplementary packages for extra care such as dental care. Use tools like Independer or Zorgwijzer.
What to do with a non-reimbursed bill?
Check if the care falls under the basic coverage. If rejected, request a written explanation and object within 6 weeks. For help, you can contact Zorginstituut Nederland.
Can I change my insurance mid-term?
Normally this can only be done around the turn of the year. Exceptions are moving abroad, death, or reaching 18 years (take out your own policy within 4 months).
What is the difference between natura and restitution policy?
A natura policy reimburses care only from contracted providers and is cheaper. A restitution policy offers free choice of care providers, but has a higher premium.
Need help in Rijswijk?
For legal questions about health insurance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk. For disputes, the Rechtbank Den Haag (district) may be involved.