Can't afford healthcare and therefore postponing appointments? This is called healthcare avoidance. In Zoetermeer, there are options to still get the necessary help, even with a limited budget.
What does healthcare avoidance mean?
Healthcare avoidance means avoiding or postponing medical care due to financial limitations. Examples include:
- Not picking up medication at the pharmacy
- Skipping dentist visits
- Not visiting the general practitioner
- Cancelling treatments due to the own contribution
Free or affordable healthcare in Zoetermeer
There are forms of healthcare that cost little or nothing:
| Type of care | Costs |
|---|---|
| General practitioner visit | Free (falls outside deductible) |
| Midwifery care | Free |
| Consultation office | Free |
| Public health service (GGD) services | Free |
| Youth care (up to 18 years) | Free |
Financial support for healthcare costs
- Healthcare allowance: a monthly contribution for your premium via the Tax Authorities
- Extraordinary assistance: help with unexpected healthcare costs via the municipality of Zoetermeer
- Municipal health insurance policy: an affordable health insurance for people with a low income
- Foundation for Urgent Needs: one-time support in case of urgent financial need
The municipal health insurance policy in Zoetermeer
The municipality of Zoetermeer offers a collective health insurance for residents with a low income:
- Reduced premium compared to standard insurances
- Including extra coverage (such as dentist and physiotherapy)
- No medical examination required
- Contact the municipality of Zoetermeer for more information
Frequently asked questions about healthcare costs in Zoetermeer
Can the municipality of Zoetermeer reimburse my deductible?
In some cases, yes. Via extraordinary assistance, you can apply for reimbursement if you cannot pay the deductible. Contact the social services of the municipality.
What to do if I cannot afford my medication?
Consult your general practitioner about cheaper options. In addition, you can apply for extraordinary assistance via the municipality of Zoetermeer for help with these costs.
My child needs care, but I have no money. What now?
For children up to 18 years, care is often free, including youth care. They also do not pay a deductible and are insured free of charge.
Extra frequently asked questions
No health insurance, can I still go to the general practitioner?
Yes, a general practitioner visit is always possible, even without insurance. This falls under basic care and is free of charge. Costs may arise for medication or follow-up examinations. Ask the municipality of Zoetermeer for help in taking out a municipal health insurance policy.
How do I apply for extraordinary assistance in Zoetermeer?
You can apply for this via the municipality. This is a temporary contribution for necessary healthcare costs. Gather supporting documents such as invoices and contact the social services of Zoetermeer.
What if I cannot pay my health insurance premium?
Contact your health insurer as soon as possible for a payment arrangement. Apply for healthcare allowance via the Tax Authorities and inquire with the municipality of Zoetermeer about the municipal health insurance policy to reduce costs.