In this section we hope to give you some clarity on how the Dutch healthcare system works. What does your GP do and when do you need a referral for a specialist?
The general practitioner (house doctor) deals with a wide variety of diseases and treatments. It is the first person you go to when you’re having complaints. In a consultation with the GP you discuss your complaints and then the doctor advises you and sets up a treatment plan. If necessary you get referred to a specialist in the hospital or clinic.
There are several procedures we do within in the practice and you will not need a referral for. The placement of IUD (intra-uterine device) as a form of contraception is done here on a daily basis and most of our doctors are very experienced in this.
Small surgical procedures are performed here as well. For example: the removal of a mole, cyst or ingrown toenail.
For X-rays, MRI’s and CT-scans you will be referred to a Radiology department. We do have an option to get an ultrasound in the practice but this can only be planned after you’ve seen the doctor.
