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Choose GP

In the Netherlands, most people have a regular general practitioner (GP). A GP practice can consist of one or multiple doctors. Registering with a GP is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. A regular GP is familiar with your medical history and monitors changes in your health. You always know where to go with health concerns. If you require urgent medical care in the evening, at night, during the weekend, or on public holidays, you can contact the GP Emergency Post.

Choose GP (general practitioner)

  • Register with a GP as soon as you are settled, even if you don’t need medical care right away;
  • In the Netherlands, you are free to choose your own GP;
  • When registering, bring your (1) ID, (2) citizen service number (BSN), and (3) health insurance details;
  • At your first visit, bring any medical records and a list of medications you take.

Why choose a GP?

Most people in the Netherlands have a regular GP. A GP practice may have one or multiple doctors. It is recommended to register with a GP as soon as you are settled, even if you don’t need medical care at that moment.

Your GP will know your personal situation and keep track of your medical history. This ensures you always have someone to turn to when you have health concerns. Outside regular office hours —during the evening, night, weekend or (public) holidays – you can contact the out of hours GP service (Huisartsen Spoedpost). This is only for urgent medical questions!

How to find and choose a GP?

Choosing a GP

In the Netherlands, you are free to choose your own GP. However, in practice, you may not always be able to register with the GP of your choice due to:

  • The GP is not accepting new patients;
  • You are living too far from the practice;
  • You and your GP have different views on healthcare, such as alternative treatments or euthanasia;
  • Your health insurer is not having a contract with the GP.

Finding a GP

You can search online for ‘GP’ and your city or neighborhood to find available doctors nearby. If you cannot find a GP, your health insurer can help you locate one.

Refused by a GP

If a GP refuses to register you without a valid reason, you can contact your health insurer or the patient advocacy organization (in Duthc: Zorgbelangorganisatie) in your region. These organizations represent healthcare users’ rights. You can find contact details on the Zorgbelang Nederland website (information in Dutch).

Registering with a GP and pharmacy

When registering with a GP, bring your ID and have your BSN and health insurance details on hand. Some practices allow online registration. At your first appointment, bring any medical records from your home country and a list of your current medications. If you move within the Netherlands, your previous GP can transfer your medical records directly to your new GP, but only with your permission.

It is also advisable to register with a nearby pharmacy. This ensures your GP knows where to send prescriptions when needed.