Always register\u00a0with\u00a0a\u00a0general\u00a0practitioner (GP)<\/strong>\u00a0close\u00a0to\u00a0where\u00a0you\u00a0live.\u00a0\u00a0
Use this page to find a GP in your area<\/strong><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Important:<\/strong> The Huisartsen Spoedpost Maastricht & Heuvelland<\/em> (GP Emergency Post) is only available for urgent medical issues outside your GP\u2019s regular opening hours. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The video below explains how Dutch healthcare works. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Always register with a GP nearby. The GP does not automatically prescribe medication. If necessary, the GP will refer you to a specialist at the hospital. If you need specialist treatment, you will always receive a referral letter<\/strong> from the GP. This is usually sent digitally. Keep this letter, you may need it later for your health insurance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/hapmaastricht.nl\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/33\/2026\/07\/Student-Friendly-General-Practitioner-transparant-300x300.png\"){kind=spacer}
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nHow does healthcare work in the Netherlands?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You visit the GP for all your health problems, both physical and mental. Most health issues can be treated by the GP. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sometimes the GP will visit you at home. These consultations are more expensive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the Netherlands, you cannot go directly to the hospital, unless it is an emergency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n