Voluntary Deductible in Rijswijk: What Does It Entail and How Do You Apply It?
As a resident of Rijswijk, you can opt for a voluntary deductible under your basic health insurance policy in addition to the statutory minimum. This reduces your insurance premium—ideal if you rarely need care—but increases your out-of-pocket costs for doctor visits or medications. In 2024, the mandatory deductible is €385; you can voluntarily raise it up to a maximum of €770. For personalized policy advice, contact Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.
What Does a Voluntary Deductible Mean in Practice?
The deductible is the portion of healthcare costs you pay yourself before your insurer steps in. The mandatory portion applies to everyone aged 18 and over and covers basic care such as hospital treatments, medications, and partial GP visits. The voluntary portion is your choice when taking out or adjusting your policy, up to twice the minimum amount. It encourages prudent use of care and offers premium discounts for healthy Rijswijk residents. Exceptions apply to district nursing, maternity care, and the first GP visit.
Legal Rules on Voluntary Deductibles
The Health Insurance Act (Zvw), particularly Article 9.19 Zvw, governs this:
- Paragraph 1: The government sets the mandatory deductible annually (€385 in 2024).
- Paragraph 5: Option to increase it up to twice that amount.
- Article 9.20 Zvw: No deductible for preventive care, youth care, or similar services.
How to Arrange a Voluntary Deductible in Rijswijk?
Select it when choosing your policy or during the switching period (November 1 - December 31). Some insurers allow mid-year changes.
- Visit your insurer's website and log in.
- Choose a higher amount, such as €500 or €770.
- Rule of thumb: Every €100 extra saves about €5-€10 per month.
- Activate from January 1; if switching, the new insurer retains your choice.
If unsure about local care options, consult Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.
Benefits vs. Risks at a Glance
Whether it's advantageous depends on your healthcare needs in Rijswijk:
| Basic (€385) | Maximum (€770) | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | €140 average | €120-€130 (saving €10-€20) |
| €1,000 Care | €385 out-of-pocket | €770 out-of-pocket |
| €300 Care | €300 out-of-pocket | €300 out-of-pocket |
| No Care/Year | - | €120-€240 savings |
Based on 2024 data from Independer and ZorgkaartNederland.
Real-Life Examples from Rijswijk
Example 1: Fit Rijswijk Resident. Tim (28, Rijswijk-Zuid) opts for €770. Premium drops €15/month (€180/year). Only physiotherapy (€250) in 2023: paid out-of-pocket, savings intact.
Example 2: Sudden Healthcare Need. Marieke (45, Sir Winston Churchill-laan) chooses €600. Broken leg in the Rechtbank Rijswijk area (€2,000): €600 out-of-pocket, rest covered. Extra costs €215 vs. premium savings.
Example 3: Rijswijk Family. Parents each select €500. €200 annual savings; flu shots (no deductible) unaffected.
Rights and Obligations in Rijswijk
Rights:
- Overview of your deductible via Zorgverzekeringslijn or Vektis.
- Reduction on request in case of changes (e.g., pregnancy).
- Refund if care costs are low.
- Pay up to the limit at pharmacies or GPs.
- Report changes to your insurer.
- No coverage for non-basic care.
Frequently Asked Questions on Voluntary Deductibles
Can It Be Reduced Mid-Year?
Yes, if your health changes and your insurer agrees; otherwise, from January 1. Call your insurer.
Does It Apply to Partners/Children?
No, it's individual from age 18; children under 18 are exempt.
What If You Can't Pay?
Provider claims the insurer. In case of issues: extraordinary assistance via Gemeente Rijswijk. More info.
Dentist/Physio Count?
Usually covered by supplementary insurance, not basic. Check your policy.
Tips for Rijswijk Residents
Choose a voluntary deductible if you:
- rarely use healthcare.
- are healthy and want to save on premiums.
- can afford potential care costs.