Do you need medical assistance during a stay abroad? The costs may be partially covered by your Dutch health insurance, depending on the country and the nature of the care.
Care in EU/EER Countries
In the EU, EER countries, and Switzerland, you are entitled to necessary medical care. With the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you receive care under the same conditions as the local population.
Reimbursements by Your Health Insurance
| Circumstance | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Emergency care in the EU | Fully covered (via EHIC) |
| Planned treatment in the EU | Reimbursement up to Dutch rates |
| Care outside the EU | Reimbursement up to Dutch rates |
| Return to the Netherlands | Only with additional insurance |
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
You can apply for the EHIC free of charge from your health insurer:
- No costs associated with the application
- Valid in the EU, EER, and Switzerland
- Right to essential care
- Treatment through public healthcare providers
Outside the EU/EER
Outside the EU/EER, coverage is often limited:
- Reimbursement up to the Dutch rate
- Often required to pay a portion yourself
- Travel insurance with medical coverage recommended
Frequently Asked Questions About Care Abroad
Do I have to pay for medical costs abroad myself?
Within the EU, often not, thanks to the EHIC. Outside the EU, you usually have to pay upfront and claim reimbursement later.
Will I be brought back to the Netherlands in case of an accident?
Repatriation is not covered by the basic insurance. Take out additional or travel insurance for this purpose.
Can I intentionally go abroad for treatment?
This is possible, but you must obtain prior approval from your insurer. Without consent, you risk lower reimbursements.
Practical Information and Tips
How do I apply for an EHIC?
The EHIC can be applied for free via the website or customer service of your health insurer. The card is personal and usually valid for two years. Always take it with you when traveling within the EU/EER or Switzerland to avoid unexpected costs.
What to do in case of emergency care?
Within the EU/EER: show your EHIC at a public healthcare provider. Outside the EU: pay yourself and claim reimbursement later from your insurer. Keep all receipts and reports. In emergencies, call 112 (EU) or the local emergency number.
Are dental costs reimbursed?
Only acute dental care within the EU/EER is covered via the EHIC. For planned procedures, reimbursement is up to Dutch rates, provided you have permission. Outside the EU, only emergency pain relief is covered.
Medication not available?
Bring enough medication for your trip, plus a reserve supply. Ask your doctor for an English prescription. Within the EU, you may sometimes obtain emergency medication via the EHIC, but this is not guaranteed.
How do I claim costs?
Keep all invoices and reports. Fill out the claim form from your insurer and send the evidence along. Reimbursement is often up to Dutch rates, and pay attention to the claim deadline (usually 6 months).
Private clinics abroad?
The basic insurance only covers public healthcare within the EU/EER. Additional insurance is often required for private care. Always obtain prior approval from your insurer.
EHIC not accepted?
Find a public healthcare institution. If that is not possible, pay yourself and claim reimbursement later. Contact your insurer for support or seek help from local authorities.