I amsterdam - Health Care
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Health Care
Health Care in The Netherlands is very unique, most likely different to what you may be used to. Generally speaking, the Dutch believe that in many cases the body heals its self with minimal intervention, but medical training in The Netherlands is excellent and Dutch medical technology is among the best in the world.
Family Doctors
The family doctor (huisarts) is key in the world of health care, treating patients for basic non-surgical problems and poviding consults for most of your general health questions. The huisarts also serves as your link to most other services such as hospitisation, specialists, midwifery, physical therapy, etc.
Hospitals
Amsterdam has a broad range of hospitals (ziekenhuizen) of good to excellent quality. Hospital visits are arranged beforehand through the Family Doctor, though all have emergency services (FHBO).
Childbirth
The Netherlands have an excellent record in prenatal care and safe childbirth. You may find that aspects of prenatal care and childbirth are different from what you are used to, such as the common practice of midwifery, home birthings, the minimal of four month's of paid maternity leave, and even the option for paid parental leave.
Health Insurance
As of January 2006, a new insurance system for healthcare came into force in the Netherlands. Under the new Health Insurance Act (Zorgverzekeringswet), all residents of the Netherlands are obliged to take out health insurance.
