Can't afford healthcare costs and therefore postponing care? This is called healthcare avoidance. In Utrecht, there are various options to still access healthcare, even with a low income.
What does healthcare avoidance entail?
Healthcare avoidance occurs when you avoid necessary care due to financial limitations. This can, for example, mean:
- Not picking up medications from the pharmacy
- Continuously postponing dentist visits
- Avoiding general practitioner consultations
- Cancelling treatments due to the own contribution
Free or affordable healthcare in Utrecht
There are healthcare services that cost little to nothing:
| Type of care | Costs |
|---|---|
| General practitioner visit | Free (falls outside deductible) |
| Maternity care | Free |
| Consultation office | Free |
| GGD walk-in hours | Free |
| Youth care (under 18 years) | Free |
Financial support for healthcare costs
- Healthcare allowance: A contribution towards your health insurance premium via the Tax Authorities
- Exceptional assistance: Help with unexpected healthcare costs via the Municipality of Utrecht
- Municipal policy: An affordable health insurance for people with a low income
- Foundation Urgent Needs Utrecht: One-time support in case of urgent financial need
The municipal policy in Utrecht
The Municipality of Utrecht offers a collective health insurance for residents with limited financial means:
- A lower premium than standard insurances
- Including extra coverage (such as dentist and physiotherapy)
- No medical examination required
- Contact the Municipality of Utrecht for more information
Frequently asked questions about healthcare costs in Utrecht
Can the Municipality of Utrecht reimburse my deductible?
In some cases, yes. Via exceptional assistance, you can apply for reimbursement if you really cannot afford the deductible. Contact the social services of Utrecht.
What do I do if I cannot afford medications?
Consult your general practitioner about cheaper alternatives. In addition, you can apply for exceptional assistance from the Municipality of Utrecht for help with medication costs.
My child needs care, but I have no money. What now?
Children up to 18 years are insured for free and have no deductible. Youth care in Utrecht is also free of charge.
Additional questions about healthcare in Utrecht
No health insurance, can I still go to the general practitioner?
Yes, in Utrecht a general practitioner visit is always possible, even without insurance. This falls under basic care and is free. Costs for medications or follow-up examinations may however arise. Inquire with the Municipality of Utrecht about the municipal policy for an affordable insurance.
How do I apply for exceptional assistance in Utrecht?
You do this via the Municipality of Utrecht. Exceptional assistance is a temporary or one-time contribution for essential healthcare costs such as medications or deductible. Gather supporting documents (such as invoices) and contact the social services.
What if I cannot pay my health insurance premium?
Contact your health insurer as soon as possible for a payment arrangement. With a low income, you can apply for healthcare allowance via the Tax Authorities. Also inquire with the Municipality of Utrecht about the municipal policy to reduce costs.
Can I postpone a dentist visit due to lack of money?
It is unwise to wait, as problems can worsen and become more expensive. Discuss your situation with the dentist; some practices in Utrecht offer payment arrangements. Via the municipal policy or exceptional assistance, you may be able to get help.
Legal assistance in Utrecht
For legal questions about healthcare costs or assistance, you can go to:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht