When do you call the GP and GP clinic?

GPs are getting busier and busier. Not only during the day, but also in the evening and at weekends, more and more people are calling the GP post. As a result, waiting times can increase, there is less time per patient, and there is a risk that people with emergency complaints will be helped too late.

By calling only when absolutely necessary, you help keep healthcare accessible to all.

Check if you really need care

Are you suddenly experiencing symptoms? Then ask yourself first: how serious is it? You can also check with someone whether the websites 'Should I go to the doctor?' and GPinfo.nl consult. These platforms created by GPs and medical specialists, provide reliable and accessible information on health and illness.

I need care

Do you think real medical care is needed? Then first decide whether your question can wait until the morning or after the weekend. This is because then you can go to your own GP. They know you and, if necessary, can schedule an appointment at the practice. You can also schedule an appointment online or submit your question to your GP online (through an e-consult).

When do you call the GP?

• During office hours (08:00 - 17:00 on working days)
• For complaints that are not urgent
• For questions about medication, results or a follow-up appointment

I need care NOW

Can't your complaint wait until the next day or after the weekend? Then call the GP station. They will give you advice and tell you whether you should visit. For example, think of situations when your child can no longer urinate properly, is unresponsive and has a high fever, or when you yourself are very short of breath and have trouble walking or talking. These are symptoms that arise suddenly, worsen quickly or cause severe pain.

In serious, life-threatening situations, call immediately 112. This national emergency number is for urgent care when every second counts. If necessary, an ambulance will come to you quickly.

When to call the GP station?

• For emergency medical assistance in the evening, at night and at weekends
• Only if your complaint cannot wait until the next working day
• You always call before visiting

When don't you call the GP surgery?

Do you have bothersome complaints, but they are not urgent? Then you do not qualify for an appointment at the GP outpost. Think, for example, of an inflamed toenail or a blocked ear. Such complaints can be annoying, but can wait until your own GP's surgery. Repeat prescriptions for medicines that are not urgently needed are also not issued at the GP post.

What does healthcare cost?

Many people do not know exactly what healthcare costs. That is why we explain it briefly below. Your GP's care is reimbursed from the basic insurance. You do not pay any excess or personal contribution for this. If additional tests or procedures (such as blood tests, X-rays or ultrasounds) have to be carried out, this will be deducted from your deductible.

For care outside a GP practice, the situation is different. Care in the hospital, such as the emergency room or ambulance, falls under your deductible and you pay part of it yourself. Here are some examples:

• A telephone consultation with the GP surgery is free for you, but actually costs around €35.
• A consultation at the GP surgery is also free for you, but costs the health insurer about €206.
• A visit to the hospital emergency room (ED) will cost you your deductible (usually €385). The actual cost is often at least €385 or higher.
• An ambulance ride is also deducted from your deductible (maximum €385), while the cost of this care averages around €700.

By being aware of healthcare and knowing where to go, you help keep healthcare accessible and affordable.