The deductible is the amount you must pay yourself before your health insurance covers the costs. For 2024, this mandatory amount has been set at €385 per year.
What does the deductible entail?
The deductible is the portion of the basic health insurance costs that you pay first, before the insurer reimburses. This applies to most types of care, but there are exceptions.
Mandatory and voluntary deductible
| Type | Amount 2024 | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory deductible | €385 | For everyone aged 18 and older |
| Voluntary deductible | €0 - €500 extra | Option for premium discount |
| Total maximum deductible | €885 | Mandatory €385 + voluntary €500 |
Which care is exempt from the deductible?
You do not pay a deductible for certain care. These include:
- Consultations and home visits by the general practitioner
- Emergency care from the general practitioner outside office hours
- Care related to pregnancy and postpartum period
- Check-ups after organ donation
- Influenza vaccination for risk groups
Deductible for children
No deductible applies to children under 18 years of age. They are covered free of charge via one of the parents' policy.
Option for higher voluntary deductible
You can choose to increase your deductible in increments of €100 up to €500. This results in a lower monthly premium, which can be advantageous if you expect low healthcare costs.
Frequently asked questions about the deductible
Is the deductible recalculated every year?
Yes, the deductible resets every year on January 1. Your used amount is then reset to €0.
Do I have to pay the deductible for a general practitioner visit?
No, general practitioner care is exempt from the deductible. However, follow-up treatments via a specialist are subject to the deductible.
Is installment payment of the deductible possible?
Yes, many insurers offer an arrangement to pay the deductible in monthly installments. Inquire with your insurer about the options.
Additional questions and answers
What if I cannot pay the deductible immediately?
If you cannot pay the mandatory deductible of €385 at once, the insurer often covers the costs upfront. You repay this later, for example in installments. Contact your insurer for specific arrangements.
Can I change my voluntary deductible annually?
Yes, you can adjust the voluntary deductible (between €0 and €500) each year when concluding or amending your policy. A higher deductible means a lower premium, but be cautious with high healthcare costs.
Does physiotherapy fall under the deductible, even with a referral?
Yes, physiotherapy is subject to the deductible, even with a general practitioner referral. Only the general practitioner consultations themselves are exempt.
How does the deductible work around the turn of the year?
The deductible applies per calendar year. If you have almost reached the maximum in December, it starts anew in January. Therefore, plan healthcare costs strategically around this period.
Does the deductible apply to emergency hospital admissions?
Yes, emergency hospital care is subject to the deductible, except if it concerns general practitioner or midwife care. The mandatory amount of €385 must be paid first.
Can I transfer the deductible when switching insurance?
No, the deductible is personal and resets per calendar year. With a new policy in January, it starts anew at €0, without transfer of remaining amounts.
In short
The deductible in 2024 amounts to €385 and must be paid by you before the health insurance reimburses. For Westland, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Westland for advice on health insurance matters. For legal questions regarding care, the District Court of The Hague (district) may be relevant.