Do you need medical assistance during a stay abroad? Depending on the country and the nature of the care, your Dutch health insurance may cover the costs (in part).
Medical Assistance within the EU/EEA
In the EU, EEA countries, and Switzerland, you have access to necessary care. With the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you receive treatment under the same conditions as the local population.
Which Costs Are Covered?
| Circumstance | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Emergency care within EU | Fully covered (via EHIC) |
| Planned treatment EU | Reimbursement up to Dutch rate |
| Care outside EU | Limited to Dutch rate |
| Return to the Netherlands | Only with additional insurance |
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) Application
The EHIC is available through your health insurer:
- Free to apply for
- Valid in EU, EEA, and Switzerland
- Right to essential care
- Treatment via public healthcare providers
Care Outside the EU/EEA
Outside the EU/EEA, coverage is limited:
- Reimbursement up to the rate in the Netherlands
- Often required to pay out-of-pocket
- An additional travel insurance is recommended
Practical Questions about Care Abroad
Do I have to pay costs abroad myself?
Within the EU often not, thanks to the EHIC. Outside the EU, you usually have to pay upfront and claim later from your insurer.
Will I be brought back to the Netherlands in case of an accident?
Repatriation is not covered by the basic insurance. You need additional or travel insurance for this.
Can I plan a treatment abroad?
Yes, but first coordinate with your insurer. Without approval, you risk partial or no reimbursement.
Frequently Asked Questions Specific to Utrecht
How do I apply for the EHIC from Utrecht?
From Utrecht, you can apply for the EHIC free of charge via the website or customer service of your health insurer. The card is personal and generally valid for two years. Take it with you on trips within the EU/EEA or Switzerland to avoid unexpected costs.
What to do in case of emergency care abroad?
Within the EU/EEA: show your EHIC at a public healthcare provider for immediate assistance. Outside the EU: pay yourself and claim later from your insurer. Keep all receipts and reports. In emergencies, call 112 (EU) or the local emergency number.
Are dental costs abroad reimbursed?
Only urgent dental care within the EU/EEA is covered via the EHIC. For planned treatments, you often need permission, and reimbursement is up to the Dutch rate. Outside the EU, only acute care is limitedly reimbursed.
What if my medication is not available abroad?
Take sufficient medication for your trip, plus a reserve supply. Ask your doctor for an English-language prescription and declaration. Within the EU, the EHIC can sometimes help with emergency medication, but there are no guarantees. If in doubt, contact your insurer.
How do I claim healthcare costs from abroad?
Keep all original receipts and reports. Complete your insurer's claim form and send the evidence along. Within the EU/EEA, this often goes via the EHIC; outside the EU, you pay first yourself. Note the ultimate submission deadline, often six months.
Can I go to a private clinic with my Dutch policy?
The basic insurance covers only care at public institutions within the EU/EEA. For private care or care outside the EU, additional insurance is often needed. Always request prior approval from your insurer to prevent surprises.
What if my EHIC is not accepted?
Find a public healthcare institution. If that is not possible, pay yourself and keep proof for claiming. Contact your insurer or the local healthcare authority for assistance. Travel insurance often provides extra security.
Legal Assistance in Utrecht
For questions about health insurance or disputes with insurers, in Utrecht you can go to:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht