ACCESS Publications
Guide to Health Care in The Netherlands

Welcome to the Dutch health care system. Every country has a different way of providing health care for its residents. The purpose of this book is to help you navigate your way around the Dutch system and make it work for you. Generally speaking, the Dutch believe that in many cases the body heals itself with a minimum of intervention. On the other hand, medical training in The Netherlands is excellent and Dutch medical technology is among the best in the world. In short, there is competent help available. In this book you will find out how to register with a family doctor — your huisarts — who will be your key to Dutch health services.

We have included advice on how to deal with medical emergencies and where to get medicines. You will find guidance on culture and language differences as well as general information on special needs, mental health and alternative medicine.

The glossary at the end of this book lists the Dutch words used throughout the book and their English equivalents.

Contents include:
List of Tables
Introduction
Chapter 1 Getting Started
Chapter 2 Hospitals and Health Agencies
Chapter 3 Beyond the General Practitioner
Chapter 4 Sexual Health
Chapter 5 Pregnancy and Childbirth
Chapter 6 Health Services for Children
Chapter 7 Medication
Chapter 8 Emergencies
Chapter 9 Medical Services and Dutch Law
Chapter 10 Euthanasia and Living Will
Chapter 11 Death
Chapter 12 Miscellaneous Matters
Chapter 13 Useful Information