How to choose a doctor in Amsterdam
In the Netherlands, you generally need to be registered with a general practitioner - a huisarts - before that practice will treat you for anything that isn't urgent. Sort this out as soon as you're settled, since registering can take a while to process.
Before applying anywhere, check that the practice is actually accepting new patients, since this varies GP to GP. Registering with a huisarts is usually paired with signing up for Dutch health insurance if you haven't already, and separately with a pharmacy (apotheek) that will fill any prescriptions your doctor writes.
Physiotherapy overlaps with fitness for many readers rebuilding after an injury, and our Amsterdam gyms and fitness directory covers that adjacent ground separately. Readers looking for related but separate care can also see our guide to Amsterdam chiropractors or our guide to Amsterdam psychologists and therapists.
Questions people ask
Do I need to register with a doctor before I can be treated in Amsterdam?
Yes - in the Dutch system you generally can't just walk into a doctor's office without being registered there first. An unregistered patient can be turned away unless the case counts as urgent, so it's worth registering with a huisarts before you actually need one.
How do I check whether a general practitioner is accepting new patients?
Availability changes practice by practice, so ask the GP directly whether their patient list is open before you apply. Confirming this first saves you from going through an application only to be told the practice is full.
Do I need to arrange health insurance before I register with a GP?
Signing up for Dutch health insurance is one of the steps in the registration process if you haven't arranged it already. It's typically done alongside the paperwork and intake for your new GP, so it helps to have it in hand before you apply.
Will my GP refer me to a specialist, or can I book one directly?
In the Dutch system, your huisarts is the usual route to a specialist - you see your GP first and they refer you on. That's one more reason to have a registered GP in place even if a specialist is what you actually need.
Do I need to register with a pharmacy too?
Yes, registering with a doctor and registering with a pharmacy are two separate steps. Sorting out your apotheek at the same time as your GP means you're not doing it for the first time when you're already holding a prescription.
Does this category include dentists?
No - dental care runs on its own system in the Netherlands and isn't part of this listing. If that's what you're after, see our guide on how to choose a dentist in Amsterdam.