General practitioners (huisarts) play an essential role in the Dutch healthcare system; they are the first port of call if you have health problems. If necessary, your GP will refer you to a specialist at a hospital. You are free to choose your doctor. However, it is helpful to choose one close to home.
You could use websites like Zorgkaart to compare different GPs in your area and pick the best fit for your needs. Customer service of insurance providers will also help you find a GP near you or ask us, and we will help you with the search.
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Basic insurance policies do not cover dental care (except for children under 18 and specialist dental care, such as surgery). On the other hand, supplementary dental insurance can cover the cost (or a percentage). You can check the policy terms or contact your insurer for the exact coverage.
However, when comparing costs and insurances, check what’s precisely covered. Often, it is, for example, 75% up until 250 euros of the dental bill – which means it will cover checks and small fixes and such.
There are many expat-friendly dental professionals, clinics, and practices around Amsterdam, such as Lassus Tandartsen, Tandarts Jordaan, and Tandartspraktijk Plantage. To find your dentist, you can also ask your friends, neighbours, and your GP or visit the website Tandarts.nl.
Dentists list their prices on their website, and insurance companies have comparable lists of how much they will cover for each service, allowing you to choose their own level of care. In addition, you can visit their website to learn more about their methods and services, locations and opening hours, and to book an appointment.
On the other hand, dental surgeons are usually affiliated with a hospital, while orthodontists work in private practice. To visit one of these, you will need a referral from a regular dentist. However, there are also dental hygiene practices in larger cities like Amsterdam, which you don't need a referral to visit.
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Treat yourself to a dentist that’s in your neighborhood in Amsterdam, speaks perfect English or you just have a good vibe with. They all cost roughly the same.
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You will need to register with your local pharmacy (Apotheek) as with your GP. Although filling prescriptions at other pharmacies is possible, registering a regular pharmacy by giving them your contact details and health insurance information provides several benefits.
For example, your GP may be able to email your prescription directly to the pharmacy, so you can pick up your medicine when it is ready. Some pharmacies can deliver medications to your home free of charge, while others also offer secured pick-up boxes accessible with a key so that you can retrieve prescriptions after hours.
If the pharmacy is registered with your particular insurance scheme, you generally won't have to pay directly for the medicine (although that depends on the particular prescription and your policy).