Health system
Dutch medical care is of high quality and is comparable to the medical care one finds throughout Western Europe. Diagnostic laboratories and specialists in all fields of medicine are available. Hospitals are well-equipped, and maternity hospitals and many clinics are available. Most doctors and dentists speak English.
Most medicines are available locally. They may not, however, be of the same brand as those used in other countries and prices are generally higher.
Compulsory health insurance: start of coverage
If you come to live or work in the Netherlands, you are required to take out a health insurance policy with a Dutch insurer with coverage from the day you arrive. You have 4 months to take out the health insurance policy. You must also register with a Dutch municipality. Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands, is legally obliged to take out standard health insurance, even if you already have health insurance in your country of origin. The Dutch health insurance covers (for example) the costs for a family doctor visit, hospital treatment and prescribed medicines.