Medical care in the Netherlands

Emergency care

If you urgently need an ambulance, the police or the fire brigade, call 112. This is the national toll-free emergency phone number.

General practitioner (GP)

If you need medical help, visit a general practitioner (GP). Do not go to the hospital’s Accident & Emergency (A&E) department unless it is a real emergency.

You must register with a GP in your area as soon as you have settled, even if you do not need care immediately. We also recommend that you to register with a pharmacy. Your GP can advise you on a good local pharmacy.

If the GP thinks you need further tests or treatment, they will refer you to a specialist, usually at a hospital. This is normal procedure in the Netherlands.

If you forget to cancel an appointment, your GP will charge you for the missed consultation. Always inform the doctor at least 24 hours in advance if you cannot attend.